LaVerne Schwendemann

LaVerne ?Vern? Robert Schwendemann was born on April 5, 1932, in Swift County, the son of Herman and Gladys (Cramlet) Schwendemann. He grew up on a farm and attended country school in Pope County. Vern served his country in the United States Navy. Vern was united in marriage to Arlou Urness on June 5, 1954. To this union three children were born: Paul, Amy and Sheila. The family moved to Alexandria in August of 1972. The couple opened a business called ?Arlou?s Ready to Wear.? Vern worked at several jobs and retired from Alexandria Technical College. He enjoyed dancing, swimming, waterskiing, telling jokes, keeping a clean car, and a well groomed yard. Vern was a member of First Lutheran Church. Mr. Schwendemann died on Sunday, October 5, 2008. He is survived by his two daughters: Amy & husband, Tom Gardner, Sheila Schmidt; grandchildren: Erica Clitty, (Jeremy), Jana Wright, Holly Anderson (Terry), Michael Schmidt (Brittany), Kayla Hammer (Joe); seven great grandchildren, two brothers: Roy Schwendemann (Verla), Leo Schwendemann (Ione), three sisters: Hazel Jergenson, Florence Roush, Betty Ann Van Luik (Reuben). Vern was preceded in death by his son, Paul; parents: Herman and Gladys, brother-in-law: Francis Jergenson and Owen Roush; nephew, Danny Lee Jergenson, niece, Shelby Jean. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, October 8, 2008, 11:00 a.m. at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria with Rev. Sherry Billberg officiating. Pallbearers were Michael Schmidt, Greg Schwendemann, Kurt Van Luik, Chad Jergenson, Stephen Van Luik. Burial was at Sunset Memorial Park in Alexandria.