Obituary of LaVerne Herman Jensen

LAVERNE H. JENSEN LaVerne H. (Vern - "Skipper") Jensen, age 89, passed peacefully on Wednesday, February 22, 2017 at Symphony of Joliet surrounded by his family. He was born September 25, 1927 to the late Margaret (nee Hampson) and Herman Jensen in Dwight, IL but Joliet was his lifetime home. Vern was a graduate of Joliet Central, class of 2001 since he left high school to enlist in the United States Coast Guard, serving on the USS Mills Destroyer Escort in World War II. Vern met the love of his life, Marjorie Bell, at the Rialto Square Theatre where she sold war bonds in the lobby and he was an usher. They married on November 26, 1950 at Ingalls Park Methodist Church. Throughout his life, Vern worked in sales throughout the greater Joliet area including Pearson Construction & K&W Lumber. He retired from Lincoln-Way Community High School District 210. After retirement, Vern & Marge were active in the SCCA & CART where they both served as track officials and enjoyed camping at various racetracks in the Midwest while following their favorite drivers. In addition, Vern was Past Commander of Harwood Post #5, a member of Cantigny VFW Post #367, plus very proud member of the local Destroyer Escort Group which he co-founded with Marge. Vern is survived by his children Sandra Lu (Frank) Gunter of Normal, William H (Kimberly) Jensen of Joliet, & Anton E (Sue) Jensen of Island Lake. Six grandchildren, Eric (Sofija) Gunter, Kevin (Alexandra) Gunter, Jennifer (Scott) Bartnik, Brent (Kelsey Lexow) Jensen, Shannell (Rico) Reed & Jordan Jensen, 7 great-grandchildren, plus two sisters, Mary Jean White & Karen Jensen, nieces & great nieces & great nephews survive. Preceded in death by his wife Marjorie (nee Bell) Jensen (2015), his parents, son Keith Jensen at birth, and grand-daughters Heather L. Gunter & Lindsey E Jensen. Funeral services will be Monday, February 27, 2017 at Faith Lutheran Church, 353 Midland Ave, Joliet at 11am, Rev. Rebekkah Lohrmann officiating. Visitation at the church prior to the service beginning at 9:30 am. Interment with full military honors under the auspices of the United States Coast Guard will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Faith Lutheran Church, Joliet Area Community Hospice or the Destroyer Escort History Museum/USS Slater (PO BOX 1926, Albany, NY 12201-1926) in his name is appreciated. For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com