MADISON - Vernus Leroy Ladd, age 90, of Madison, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at his home. He was born on March 16, 1934, in Iowa County, Wis., the son of Orville and Emma (Reed) Ladd.

Vernus graduated from Highland High School and went on to proudly serve in the U.S. Army. He was honorably discharged and was classified as an Atomic Veteran due to his involvement in Operation Plumbbob near Desert Rock, Nev. On Sept. 30, 1961, he married the love of his life, Anna Louise Walty, at First Lutheran Church in Lone Rock, Wis. He worked as a machinist at Ohio Medical along with driving truck for Madison Transit, U.S. Mail, and U-Haul through retirement.

Vernus purchased his first motorcycle (1946 Indian Chief) in his early 20s and enjoyed riding motorcycles for well over 60 years. He rode throughout the U.S. with his wife, Anna, but the West always held a special place in their hearts. You could frequently find them stopping at Al’s Oasis in Chamberlain, S.D., and touring the Black Hills. He also participated in the yearly New Year's Day Ride with the Madison Motorcycle Club for over 40 years.

Vernus enjoyed gardening, growing tomatoes, having a beer, and spending time with family. He was a gentle loving father, grandfather, and friend who would give the shirt off his back to help others. He was a long-time member of Trinity Lutheran Church.

Vernus is survived by his son, Scott Vernus (Cindy) Ladd; daughter, BethAnne (Gordon Vallejo) Hull; grandchildren, Logan Ladd, Mary (Gavin Hart) Hull, Ryan Ladd and Sawyer Ladd; sister, Marilyn Erickson; sister-in-law, Carol Ladd; as well as other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Anna Louise Ladd; brothers, Sheldon (Carol) Ladd, Clifford (Vilma) Ladd, Lambert (Judith) Ladd, Orville "Bud" Ladd; and sister, Mildred E. Ladd.

A funeral service will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 10 a.m. on Monday, April 29, 2024, with Pastor Sally Williams presiding, with a luncheon to follow. Burial with military honors will be held at OTTER CREEK CEMETERY in Highland, Wis., at 1:30 p.m. on Monday. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be gifted in Vernus' name to Agrace HospiceCare. Special thanks to Agrace HospiceCare for their continued care and support. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Vernus Leroy Ladd

March 16, 1934 - April 21, 2024

Share photos of Vernus