LaVerne R. Larson 1923-2007

LaVerne R Larson, 84 of Elgin, IA, died Tuesday Oct 9, 2007 at his home in Elgin.  He was born on Sept 11, 1923 at home on the farm in Marion Township, Clayton County Iowa, the son of Elmer and Amelia (Thorson) Larson. 

He was baptized and confirmed at the East Clermont Lutheran Church where he was a lifetime member. He attended country school at the Marion Township #3 Groth School and was a 1941 graduate of Elgin High School.  LaVerne farmed with his father before enlisting in the Navy.   He served on the Destroyer USS DeHaven during WW II.  On October 13, 1951 he was united in marriage to Marilyn Olson at the East Clermont Lutheran Church.  To this union 6 children were born.

LaVerne and Marilyn farmed east of Clermont for 5 years.  They bought a farm east of Elgin in 1956 and lived there until building a house in Elgin in 1993.  In addition to farming and raising his family, he was involved in his church and community.  He was a 4-H leader for many years, a member of the American Legion for 62 years, served on the East Clermont Church Council,  Elgin and Valley Coop Boards, AMPI Board, Clayton County Conservation Board and was a Marion Township Trustee. 

LaVerne loved the frequent visits from his grandchildren and great grandchildren.  One of his favorite things to do was to take his pickup out for a drive and see how the crops were doing and to check to see what his sons and grandsons were busy with on their farms.  John Deere tractors held a special place in his heart.

Those thankful for having shared in LaVerne's life include his wife of 55 years, Marilyn, his 6 children, Ann(David) Bartz, Lois (Kim) Dummermuth, Gary (LeAnn) Larson, James (Julie) Larson,  Barbara ( Captain Brian) Wenger and David (Janelle) Larson.   16 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren.   Sisters Marjorie Amundson, Opal Olson and brother Oliver (Darlene) Larson. 

LaVerne was preceded in death by his parents.