LaVerne Deidra Gemar

Born on March 4, 1943, in Crookston, Minnesota, to Elmer and Mabel Peters, LaVerne was an only child who spent her early years helping on the family farm. She later attended the University of Minnesota, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in dietetics and met the love of her life, Jerry Gemar. After a brief courtship, they married and moved to Seattle, Washington, where LaVerne began her career as a registered dietitian. Eventually, Jerry and LaVerne settled in Edmonds, where they built a home and shared nearly 60 joyful years together.

LaVerne was our encourager, number one fan, and lifelong supporter. She paused her career to raise her children, leading with love and patience. Her home radiated warmth, where everyone was welcomed as family and often greeted with an embrace, a home cooked meal, and heartfelt laughter. A thoughtful planner and gifted cook, she was also an avid reader of novels and cookbooks. Known for her vast vocabulary, gracious hospitality, and unwavering kindness, she championed the value of the “no thank you bite” and the handwritten thank-you note. To many, LaVerne was more than a neighbor, she was the glue that held the community together. With a ready hug and a spirit of inclusion, she became the neighborhood matriarch: trusted, cherished, and deeply loved.

After her children were grown, she returned to work and built a successful consulting practice in dietetics. She orchestrated church potlucks, never missed a chance to cheer on her grandchildren, and always lent a helping hand. Creative and generous, she loved to sew and took delight in crafting costumes and personalized gifts. She had a passion for travel and a special fondness for the family cabin. She supported loved ones on countless bike rides, enjoyed visiting wineries, and watching the sunset. And whether with neighbors, family, or friends, she was always ready for a competitive game of cards.

We celebrate her unwavering commitment to family, her talent for making ordinary days feel special, and her joy in life’s simple pleasures. Her hospitality made holidays brighter and everyday dinners unforgettable. She made space, at her table and in her heart, for all. Her life was a gift. Her legacy lives on in the love she gave and the standards she set.

LaVerne was preceded in death by her parents, Mabel and Elmer Peters; her foster brother Jim; and her beloved Aunt Freda.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Jerry Gemar; her children, Jeff (Kerri) Gemar, Randy Gemar, and Amy (Christian) Aaselund; her grandchildren, Casper Gemar, Mollie Gemar, Cameron Aaselund, and Audrey Aaselund; as well as countless others whose lives were touched by her kindness, wisdom, and laughter.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, Alzheimer's research, or Neighbors in Need—organizations that reflect LaVerne’s generous spirit and lifelong commitment to caring for others.