Lavern M. Thompson

LaVern M Thompson, 83 of Westby passed away peacefully March 14, 2014 with his family by his side. He was born January 29, 1931 to Helmer and Alma (Mikkelson) Thompson. He graduated from Viroqua High School in 1949. He then joined the Air Force where he was with the 35th Air Police Squadron serving in Korea. He was very proud to serve his country. On December 11, 1954 he was united in marriage to Joanne Holte. He drove semi for Schneider Transport out of Green Bay and Schiatal Trucking in Sparta. He also worked as a Security Officer for American Motors in Kenosha from 1963-1971. He was a member of Syverson-Funk American Legion Post 155 and a Lifetime member of Westby VFW Post 8021 where he was a past Commander. He is survived his wife Joanne of 59 years, 4 children: Kathleen Turben of Westby, Robert (Debra) Thompson of Wausua, Patricia (Don) Furrer of Wisconsin Rapids and Janice (Brian) Turben of Viroqua. 1 grandson, Cory Turben, 6 granddaughters Heather Schimenti, Nichole (Brian) Ashbeck, Tina (Leo) Diaz, Randi Furrer, Sara (Josh) Keenan, and Jillian Pagel, 3 step-grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. One sister, Elida (Charles) Anderson of Westby, sister-in-laws Anita Thompson and Rachel Iverson and Brother-in-law Verdell (Pat) Holte many nieces and nephews .He was preceded in death by his parents and 2 brothers, Harlan and Albert Thomas. Lavern spent his last day doing something he enjoyed with the person he loved the most. He will be remembered as a caring and loving husband, father and grandfather....always with a smile. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 18, at Westby Coon Prairie Lutheran Church. Pastor Dan Wollman will officiate. Burial with military honors will follow in Coon Prairie Cemetery. Friends may call on Monday from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Vosseteig Funeral Home, 708 S. Main St, in Westby, and at the church on Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the time of the service at 11. The Vosseteig Funeral Home of Westby is serving the family.