LaVerne Gerhardson

LaVerne “Stumpy” Gerhardson, 87, a resident of Wall Lake near Fergus Falls, died Friday, June 19, 2009, at MeritCare Hospital in Fargo. He was born on April 21, 1922 in Fergus Falls, the son of Leonard and Louise (Wicker) Gerhardson.   LaVerne attended school in Fergus Falls, graduating from High School here in 1940.  After school, he joined the US Navy and served during WWII. On October 6, 1951, he married Elizabeth Mavis at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in Fergus Falls.  After their marriage, the couple resided on Wall Lake in Aurdal Township.  He was a meat cutter in the area. He was a member of the Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church and the local VFW. An avid hunter and fisherman, he also enjoyed playing softball.  In addition, he so loved the companionship that his black lab, Smokey brought him.  Preceding him in death were his parents, a sister, Helen Anderson, and his wife. Survivors include two sisters-in-law, Marcie Trosvig of Fergus Falls and Elaine (Harlan) Knutson of Pelican rapids;  two brothers-in-law, Maynard Hornstine of Fergus Falls and Wesley (Sharon) Nelson of Ashby;  two nieces, Marianna (Wayne) Thompson of Devils Lake, North Dakota, and Marcie Mavis of Phoenix, Arizona; one nephew, Michael Mavis of rural Erhard; and one great-nephew, Matthew Thompson of Devils Lake.  Also surviving are numerous cousins. Visitation: Wednesday from 5 – 7 p.m. with a 6:30 public prayer service At the Olson Funeral Home Services:    10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 25, 2009, at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church Fergus Falls Clergy:  Fathers LeRoy Schik and Bill Gamber Interment:   St. James Catholic Cemetery, Maine, Minnesota Arrangements:     Olson Funeral Home, Fergus Falls Condolences may be sent online at www.olsonfuneralhome.com