Laverne John Johnson

LaVerne John Johnson, 86, of Cushing, WI passed away on March 13, 2018 at Good Samaritan’s Nursing Home in St. Croix Falls, WI.

LaVerne was born on September 7, 1931 in Grantsburg, WI to Eli and Edna (Nelson) Johnson. He grew up in rural Sterling Township working on his parents’ farm and also farms of other local neighbors. LaVerne served in the U.S. Army in the Korean War period and was stationed in Japan. He worked at Swift and Company in the twin cities and finished his work career retiring from the Ford Plant in St. Paul, MN.

He enjoyed cars both old and new and older tractors and had a great deal of knowledge about them. He also enjoyed hunting, family events, tractor pulls, car races and car shows. You could ask him just about any question regarding older cars and he would know the answer. Being a veteran LaVerne was also a member of the American Legion from Grantsburg, WI Post 185.

LaVerne was a very friendly person and always took the time to talk to friends and relatives. He was always willing to help friends and family when asked and many times offered help before being asked.

Preceding LaVerne in death were his parents Eli and Edna Johnson, brother,LeRoy, brother Robert, and sister Donna Martini.

LaVerne is survived by his son Allen (Theresa), stepson Scott DeRocker, daughters Julie, Donna, Susan and grandchildren, brother Dale (Sharon), brother Daniel (Cindy) and sister Nora (Doug) Wood and many nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

LaVerne was raised in a Christian home attending church at a young age and memorized scripture which stayed with him throughout his life. As his health failed LaVerne expressed to family members his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal savior and his desire to go to his heavenly home.

Funeral services will be held at Trade River Evangelical Free Church in Grantsburg, WI on Saturday, March 17, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. with a visitation starting at 10:00 A.M. until the time of service.

He will be laid to rest at the Trade River Cemetery following the service with Military Honors rendered by the Grantsburg American Legion Post 185.  The family invites their guests to join them for lunch and fellowship following the burial.  Pallbearers will be Zach Wood, Chris Wood, Doug Johnson, Scott DeRocker, Jonathon DeRocker, Kenny Johnson and Joel DeRocker.

Kolstad Family Funeral Home of Centuria has been entrusted with arrangements.