Our dear Laverne was born in rural North Dakota, the 4th of 8 children. As a teen, Laverne’s beauty and talent was recognized as she was selected Miss Jamestown, ND in 1939. A young man named Cal saw her picture in the paper and said, “I’m going to marry that girl!” They did meet and were married in 1942 and had 59 wonderful years together. A devoted wife, mother and homemaker, she and Cal raised 5 children (Paul, Tom, Julie, Mark and Suzanne). Her passion was always her family. She was always so proud of her 5 children, 13 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.
In addition to raising a large family, she also held a number of jobs outside the home including working on a WWII assembly line, a long distance operator and service assistant for NW Bell Telephone, a receptionist for the Commonwealth Electric Company and Social Security office and served a 2 year term on the Fergus Falls, MN Human Rights Committee. Her love for children was demonstrated, in addition to raising 5 of her own, by serving as Treasurer for the school PTO board, den mother for Campfire Girls and 3 years with a screening program for pre-school children. Added to this, she volunteered for many years with the Red Cross Mobile Blood Bank.
Laverne and Cal loved doing home improvement or DIY projects including painting, sewing, crocheting, needlework, quilting, laying carpet or tile, gardening or often just building something. On the side, they operated the L&C Shop, a furniture restoration business specializing in restoring antiques, striping and refinishing furniture, caning and cane repair and furniture re-upholstery.
Laverne truly had a million dollar smile that lit up a room. She always had a positive attitude and often said “no one wants to be around a grumpy old person.” She was always elegant and graceful. She was one of the last of the greatest generation. Laverne was loved and will be deeply missed.
The family wishes to thank Grossmont hospice and her other care givers for their care and support during Laverne’s last days. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Grossmont hospice at 5555 Grossmont Center Drive, La Mesa, CA 91942 or to your favorite charity.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18