J.R. Tollefson

To LaVerne Arden Tollefson Jr., the entire world was a stage. His parents were Pauline Reyes and Laverne Tollefson. LaVerne was raised in Las Vegas. Even as a child, LaVerne had the ability to lift the spirits of all those around him. He was raised to be warm, caring and friendly. He couldn’t help but capture everyone’s attention. He was definitely a little bit of a show off, but in doing so, he succeeded in entertaining his entire family.

Always a good playmate, LaVerne was easygoing and fun loving. He managed to lighten the mood wherever he was, even during family squabbles. He seemed to have a knack for bringing compromise and erasing tense situations around the house. Due to a generous dose of common sense, LaVerne managed to find a satisfying solution to basic problems. LaVerne was raised with four siblings. He had three sisters; older sister Linda, younger sisters Debbie and Kathy and younger brother Richard.

He took part in bowling. In his spare time he liked marbles,playing outside and riding his bike. LaVerne's memorable achievements included Bowling League Championship.

LaVerne graduated from Rancho High School in Job Corp, 1975. He enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers. His favorite class in high school was Math and Art.

LaVerne never actually encountered a stranger in his dealings with people. He was drawn to individuals and crowds, using his gregarious, adaptable and outgoing personality to captivate his audience. This quality allowed LaVerne to continually develop new relationships, ever widening his circle of friends. While growing up, some of his best friends were Kim and Jah Blandino and Mike Long. Later in life, he became friends with his mom and dad. LaVerne loved sharing life and having his home filled with people he knew.

On November 11, 1981 until 2000 LaVerne exchanged wedding vows with Victoria Pattiani at Weekirk O'Heather of Las Vegas, Nevada.

Perhaps the reason LaVerne related so well to children was the fact that he never really completely grew up himself. The ability to be just a “kid at heart” helped him in raising his own children. LaVerne was blessed with four children, son Michael and daughters Chrisina, Terri and Jessica. They were also blessed with six, Celina, Alina, Alyssa, Butter, Kyra and Elijah. LaVerne had the ability to focus his attention on the present moment. If he was spending time with the kids, that’s where all of his attention was directed. LaVerne's compassionate side prevented him from being a strict disciplinarian, and he could turn just about any situation into a playful, learning experience. He could spend hours entertaining them with fun and creative play.

LaVerne enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. LaVerne liked creating and making things. His favorite pursuits were collecting everything and anything, movies and NASCAR. LaVerne was content to enjoy his hobbies alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

LaVerne was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed watching his favorite events whenever he got the opportunity. Tops on his list were JR loved to watch his son play football and enjoyed watching the Minnesota Vikings and NASCAR on television. He also enjoyed his granddaughter Alina's soccer games and his daughter, Terri's cheerleading.

LaVerne was a lover of animals and cherished his pets, enjoying them almost as much as he enjoyed being around other people. One of LaVerne's favorites was JoJo his Pomeranian. They were best friends for 9 years.

LaVerne passed away on September 27, 2011 at Solari Hospice. Laverne suffered through many different illnesses and diseases which finally took his life. He is survived by his loving children Michael, Terri and Jessica; and his grandchildren Celina, Alina, Alyssa, Butter, Kyra and Elijah. Services were held at Palm.

LaVerne brought joy to all of those around him. He loved to have a good time and was an eternal optimist, always looking on the bright side of things. He loved to share his energy, wit, and his zest for all of his activities with his friends and family. LaVerne Arden Tollefson Jr. lived life to its fullest and made everyone around him happier just for knowing him. He will be remembered with a smile.

Arrangements under the direction of Palm Eastern Mortuary, Las Vegas, NV.