THOMPSON, Laverne M. (Vern)

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona Friday, March 18, 2005 Lavern 'Vern' M. Thompson died March 9, 2005, peacefully at his home in Prescott, Ariz., with family around him. He was born Oct. 9, 1914, in Faith, S.D., to Arthur and Luella Thompson. At seven years of age, the family moved to Iowa, where he was raised on a farm. He graduated from high school and Jr. College. Several years later, he married Frances Wyatt and they moved to Farnhamville, Iowa, on a family farm, where they stayed for 15 years and raised their two sons, Steve and Don. In 1958, they moved to Williams, where they owned and operated the Norris Motel for 20 years. In 1972, they transferred their membership to the Prescott United Methodist Church and moved to the Prescott area. Vern was a trustee of the church for several years and also served as usher and greeter. In Williams, Vern was a member of Rotary for 12 years and a past president. He also served on the school board. He was preceded in death by his oldest son, Steve, Jan. 27, 2005. He is survived by his wife, Frances; sister, Ardus and her children, Lamoine, Randy and Delmar; son, Don; daughter-in-law, Eydie; granddaughter, Brea; daughter-in-law, Toni; granddaughters, Lisa and Julee, and grandson, Jeff; five great-grandchildren; and nephew, John. Memorial services will be held at Prescott United Methodist Church at 505 West Gurley at 1 p.m. on March 21. Information provided by survivors.