LaVerne C. Larson, known to many as Vern, passed away on October 16, 2026, in Rockford, Illinois, surrounded by his family. He was born on April 14, 1947, in Rockford, the son of Alfred and Helen (Krantz) Larson, and remained a man whose presence was warmly felt by those around him throughout his life. He married the love of his life, Kathleen "Kathy" Klotz on September 10, 1977, and spent a wonderful 49 years together.

Vern will be remembered as a dedicated and humorous man, someone whose stubborn streak was matched by a deeply gentle heart. Beneath a rough exterior was a true teddy bear, and those who knew him best understood the kindness, loyalty, and affection that lived there. He had a gift for making friends wherever he went and loved talking with everyone, leaving behind many memories of conversation, laughter, and easy companionship.

He served in the Navy Reserves from April 1965 until August 1967. Over the years, he also found friendship and fellowship through the Vietnow Club, the SMSF Club, and the Ken Rock Hunting Club. He attended the Rock Cut annual state group hunt, enjoying the tradition and the company as much as the outing itself.

Vern took great joy in the simple and meaningful pleasures of life. He loved hunting, fishing, and camping, and he especially enjoyed collecting, particularly tools and ammo. He was a football fan, faithfully cheering on the Minnesota Vikings, and he enjoyed listening to country music. He also brought smiles to those around him with his playful spirit, including his fondness for doing the “hamster” dance. He loved dogs, and his warmth toward animals reflected the tenderness that was such an important part of who he was.

Above all else, Vern considered his proudest accomplishment to be his children and grandchildren. That pride, love, and devotion shaped his life and will remain one of the clearest and most lasting parts of his legacy.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for his humor, his big heart, his friendships, and the joy he found in family, the outdoors, and the people around him. His memory will continue to live on in the stories shared, the laughter he inspired, and the love he gave so freely.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Kathy; children, Shannon (Troy) Peacock, Tammy (Jim) Hansen, and Ryan (Alison) Larson; grandchildren, Jacob (Cheyenne Dixon) Hansen, Jared Hansen, William Peacock, Rylan Peacock, Lilith Larson, and Violet Larson; brother, Donald Larson; brother-in-law, Mark Gruner; sister-in-law, Sue (Glen) Muench; special friends, Danny Richard and Paul (Jan) Delvallee; lifelong friend, Steve Joyce; and german shepherd, Joey. He is predeceased by his parents; granddaughter, Raegan Annaliese Peacock; and brother, Pete Larson.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Unity Hospice.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.