LaVerne Donald Johnson

PRAIRIE DU SAC – LaVerne’s humor, laughter and gift of gab were silenced on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2020, never missing a step in bringing a smile to the end. The son of Josevious and Clara (Myklebust) Johnson, Vern attended DeForest High School, where he demonstrated his talent as a gifted boxer in competition. He was a U.S. Army Veteran, having served in the Korean War. In recent years, he was able to participate in the National Honor Flight. Vern married Karen Langer on March 30, 1957, and they had two children, Monte and Jayme. Vern was a partner at Pulsfus and Johnson Chevrolet in DeForest. In 1973, he and Karen built The Timbers in DeForest. Vern’s true calling was found! With his quick wit, one liners, and the overall joy he found in conversing with anyone, he was never at a loss for words. At the same time, the family moved to the lake house in Okee. For many years it was the gathering place for family, friends and parties. Always the perfect host, he enjoyed sharing his love of the water with his kids and grandkids. Never one to be idle after selling The Timbers, Vern started painting and staining and making home repairs, which proved to be another career for many years. He never missed an opportunity to travel, whether to Daytona, NASCAR, New Orleans, Nashville, or packing the family up and heading to Arizona, always with the convertible top down. He looked forward to deer hunting trips with his DeForest friends, the fishing trips to Canada with Monte, and always the spring Lake Erie trips. He and Jayme traveled to Bejing, where they walked on the Great Wall of China. His last two trips to Mexico were with granddaughter, Ashley, Ryan, Jayme and Karen. Vern is survived by his wife, Karen; son, Monte (Lori); daughter, Jayme; grandchildren, Ashley (Ryan) Davis and Lindsay (Jason) Berning; and great-grandchildren, Brantley, Madelyn and Beckham Berning, and Samantha Davis. Vern’s brother, Bud, and brother-in-law, Mike, were never out of his thoughts after their passing, now they, along with other family and many great friends, are there to greet Vern. Many thanks to Dr. James Heun, oncologist, for his exceptional care and his caring visits; to Dr. David Crawford, for many years of excellent care; and to the grandchildren for their help and support. We will miss your courage and the strength you showed throughout your illness, your “live for the day” attitude, and most of all the humor you brought to us daily. Thank you for the good life you gave us all. We love you – Your Family. Per Vern’s wishes, there will be no services. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson West Funeral & Cremation Care 7435 University Ave. (608) 831-6761