LaVerne E. Hanson

LaVerne E. Hanson, a shining beacon of love, faith, and community, was born on January 7, 1925, in Elizabeth Township, MN, and departed this world peacefully on March 27, 2025, at Riverfront on Main of Pelican Rapids. She lived a remarkable 100 years, showcasing a life steeped in Christian faith that inspired all who knew her.

Raised on a farm in Elizabeth Township as the youngest of seven siblings, LaVerne was a formidable individual, strong and independent, with a wit and wisdom that never waned. Throughout her life, she was deeply engaged in both her church and her community, demonstrating a commitment to serving others that was unwavering. LaVerne married Leonard Hanson on June 30, 1944, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Elizabeth, weaving together a partnership filled with love and respect.

Professionally, LaVerne had a fulfilling career, beginning her working life as a telephone switchboard operator from her home in Erhard during the 1940s. She then became an integral part of Carr and Hanson in Pelican Rapids during the 1950s, before dedicating over three decades of her life to Swan Drug, where she worked tirelessly until her retirement in 1993. Throughout her career, LaVerne built lasting relationships and touched the lives of many, becoming a beloved figure of her community and a committed colleague to many.

Beyond her professional achievements, LaVerne was known for her exceptional baking skills, particularly her treasured, prize-worthy chocolate chip cookies and delicious bread. Sundays were often a family affair, filled with joyous meals shared with loved ones, and evenings spent nestled in front of the television watching classics like Lawrence Welk and Hee-Haw, popcorn in hand. She maintained a passion for playing card games and enjoyed the harmony brought by Christian music, always surrounded by the warmth of family and friendship.

LaVerne was a proud mother to her two daughters, Deanna Gordon and Gloria Bratlien. She cherished her role as a grandmother to Stacy Hanson, Mike Habedank, Shirley Carlson, David Habedank, and Alan Habedank, and welcomed the joy of great-grandchildren Aleisa Rayburn, Spencer Bugbee, Nicole Miltich, Matthew Habedank, and Madison Habedank, along with many great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends. Each generation carried forward her legacy of kindness and generosity.

Her strength and tenacity during her later years was a testament to her character as she proudly remained in her own home until 2020 before making a transition to Riverfront Manor and ultimately to Riverfront on Main, where she continued to be surrounded by love until her passing. As an active member of the VFW Post 5252 Auxiliary in Pelican Rapids, she exemplified the values of service and community.

LaVerne is now reunited in spirit with her beloved husband Leonard; her parents Bill and Emma Kroll; her siblings Viola Orndorff, Myrtle Boese, Beatrice Weiss, Charlotte Boese, Dorothy Dohrer; and her brother Everett Kroll.

A viewing for LaVerne will be held on April 2, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM at Larson Funeral Home in Pelican Rapids. With a time of food and fellowship immediately following her funeral service, LaVerne will then be laid to rest at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery at approximately 3pm the same day. As we gather to celebrate LaVerne's incredible life, we remember her warmth, resilience, and unwavering faith that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will echo through the hearts of her family and friends forever.