LaVerne E. Kerkman

LaVerne E. Kerkman RACINE-LaVerne Eunice (nee: Andersen) Kerkman, 85, was able to leave this earthly life for her eternal life as she had prayed for, in her home, on the property she had lived on for the past 78 years. LaVerne spent her last day at her daughter Cathy’s home for a reunion with all of her children and friends from Germany and throughout the U. S. LaVerne was born in Racine on May 31, 1930, the daughter of the late Walter and Mary Andersen. She was united in marriage to Theodore Kerkman on April 26, 1952, who preceded her in death on October 26, 1994. LaVerne and Theodore were blessed with four children, William Kerkman, Mary (Darrell) Bohn, Michael Kerkman and Catherine (Dan) VanKoningsveld. She is also survived by six grandchildren, Deana (Dave) Gervais, Brian (Cathy) Kerkman, Alexis (Jacob) Aschauer, Sara and Elizabeth VanKoningsveld and James Kerkman. LaVerne is also survived by two great-granddaughters, Tessa and Lydia, in addition to niece and goddaughter, Sharon Fenkl, and other nieces and nephews, relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by daughter-in-law, Marguerite Kerkman, brother, Richard Andersen, and sister, Rosemarie Christensen. She will be greatly missed by her family and especially her baby dog, Simba. LaVerne’s greatest pleasure was spending time with her family. She was employed at Hamilton Beach, Mamco, Dremel Manufacturing and her last 20 years at O&H Bakery, where she retired from at the age of 75. LaVerne was a longtime faithful member of First Reformed Church. After her retirement she volunteered at Wheaton Franciscan Health Care-All Saints and was an honorary member of the Harbor Lite Yacht Club. LaVerne loved her Green Bay Packers, enjoyed NASCAR, traveling and sharing her stories with everyone. She was a great cook, baker and found great enjoyment in planning family parties. Visitation will be held at Sturino Funeral Home on Friday, September 11, 2015 from 4-7 pm and will continue on Saturday at First Reformed Church, 7110 Old Spring Street from 9:30 am until service time at 10 am. with Rev. Cary Winn officiating. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember LaVerne in a special way may direct memorials to First Reformed Church or Heartland Hospice. The entire Kerkman family would like to extend a very special thank you to Heartland Hospice, especially to Rebecca, Kayla, Amber and Nancy. LaVerne loved your care and friendship.

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LaVerne E. Kerkman

May 31, 1930 - September 7, 2015