Lavern L. Lohmann, 82, of Independence, Iowa died Sunday morning, February 2, 2014, at his home.

Lavern was born on August 2, 1931, in Waverly, IA the son of Emil H. and Lillie (Mensching) Lohmann. He was married to LaVon E. Ladage on August 27, 1950 in the Grace Lutheran Church, Tripoli, IA. On February 7, 1967, Vern opened the “Vern’s True Value Hardware Store” in Independence, IA, operating the store until Feb. 7, 1997, at which time his daughter and son-in law took over its operation. Vern also operated the Lifts for People with Disabilities, installing elevators throughout NE Iowa for 24 years prior to his retirement. Vern also served as a Reserve Sheriff’s Deputy in Buchanan County for 10 years, a school bus driver for the Independence Community School District, a boy scout leader, past president of the Independence Chamber, a board member and president of the Immanuel Lutheran Church Board, a member and past Master of the Masonic Lodge, and a past member of the Lions and Jaycees.

He is survived by his wife; LaVon Lohmann, Independence, IA two children; Kevin (Sharon) Lohmann, San Clemente, CA, and Tamara (Gordy) Fenner, Independence, IA, six grandchildren; Ashlea, Emilea, Kelsey, Sydni, Tyler, and Kahtya, one great grandson; Gaven, and a sister; Eleonora Vohsman, Waverly, IA.

Vern was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter; Terene Kremer, and a sister; Arlene Liddle.

Funeral services will be held at 11 AM Thursday, February 6, 2014 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Independence, IA., with Rev. Greg DeBoer officiating. Burial will be held at 2 PM Thursday at Harlington Cemetery, Waverly, IA. Friends may call from 4 to 8 PM Wednesday at the Reiff Funeral Home & Crematory, Independence, IA, where a Masonic Memorial Service will be held at 8 PM Wednesday.

Affiliations

Masonic Lodge