LaVerne Robert Klingensmith, age 81 of Ellsworth WI, died on Monday, February 11, 2019 at United Hospital in St. Paul. LaVerne was born September 18, 1937 in Red Wing MN to parents Robert and Lillis (Bystrom) Klingensmith. Like many of his generation, LaVerne attended country school. He was united in marriage to Marilyn K. Bottolfson on May 9, 1959, and they renewed their marriage on February 18, 1983. Their union in marriage was blessed with three daughters: Karen, Kathy, and Karla.

LaVerne worked for many years as a mechanic at Larson & Quinn, and also in maintenance at the Pierce County Courthouse. In later years, he mowed lawns for many people as well. Outside of work, LaVerne could usually be found with a fishing pole in hand. He loved reeling in the crappies and panfish, and cared enough to batter, fry, and share his catch with others. He liked to bake and share his homemade cookies with others too. LaVerne also enjoyed a good game of cards, especially cribbage and euchre. LaVerne had an affinity for antique John Deere tractors, and loved going on tractor runs with other friends and their tractors. LaVerne had a nickname for nearly everyone he loved. He embodied a wonderful sense of humor, and loved to laugh. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

LaVerne is survived by his daughters, Karen (Richard) Brunkhorst, and Kathy (Joe) Pechacek; grandchildren, Jennifer (Ben) Stern, Richard (Nichole) Brunkhorst, Robert Klingensmith, and Tyler Colegrove; great-grandchildren, Kaleb, Cameron, Haley, Maxx, Aleeya, and Karlee; his brother, Byron Klingensmith; as well as many nieces, nephews, Bottolfson in-laws, and friends. LaVerne was preceded in death by his loving wife Marilyn; his daughter, Karla Colegrove; and siblings Barbara Winger and Dale Klingensmith.

The life of LaVerne Klingensmith will be celebrated on Saturday, February 16th at the Zion Covenant Church, 210 N Beulah Street in Ellsworth WI. Visitation will begin at 10:00am, and the Memorial Service will follow at 12:00 noon, with Pastor David Hugare officiating. Memorials may be given to the discretion of the family. Services have been entrusted to the O’Connell-Benedict Funeral Home of Ellsworth WI. 715-273-4421