LaVerna Mae Thompson, at the age of 95, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 9, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

LaVerna was born on May 27, 1930, to Arvid and Lillian Lundholm. She grew up on the Lundholm farm located west of Chetek. LaVerna graduated from Chetek High School in 1948 with honors. She married Bill Thompson on May 14, 1950. They lived in Red Wing and Stewartville, MN, before moving back to Chetek. They moved to their beautiful home on Prairie Lake in 1964. Together, they raised 4 children. Together, Bill and LaVerna started their family business, Bill’s Trading Post, in 1954, which was a thriving, successful business until 1998, when they both were able to retire. For 44 years, Bill and LaVerna worked side by side. Many high school students worked under LaVerna’s supervision as checkers, stockers, baggers, etc. LaVerna had a passion for gardening, reading, baking, and cooking. Her cookie jar was never empty. LaVerna especially enjoyed entertaining family at holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions.

LaVerna possessed a remarkable memory, allowing her to recall names, faces, family history, etc., right up until her passing. LaVerna and Bill shared their enthusiasm for Wisconsin Sports teams. They cheered on the Packers, Bucks, Brewers, and the Badgers. They both loved watching their own children, grandchildren, and great-grand children’s sporting events and attended as many as they could. LaVerna and Bill were married for almost 75 years. That is a milestone not many get to share. Their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren are their legacy.

LaVerna was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bill; step-mother, Theresa(Johnson) Lundholm; brothers, Woodrow (Marcella), Eugene, Lawrence (Fern), Douglas (Loretta), and Ove; brothers-in-law, Bill Labude and Arlie Borgen; sister, Arvena; step-sisters, Arlene Skjerly, Millie Christianson, Judy Hanson, and Dona Neby. She is survived by her children, Mitchell (Diana) Thompson, Steven Thompson, Julie (Tony) Olson, and Richard (Paula) Thompson.

She is survived by one sister, Jean Labude; step-sisters Leona Puppe, Carolyn Cizek and Betty Rockow; step-brother, Bob Johnson. She is survived by her grandchildren, Adam (Kelly) Olson, Brett (Nicole) Olson, Daniel Thompson, Molly Thompson, Melissa (Jeff) Secraw, Malery Thompson, and Jake Thompson. Great grandchildren: Mason, Cy, Tris, Luke, Emma, Malia, Bennett, Arla, Kayla, Ryan, and Chase. LaVerna loved her family and took great delight in sharing time with all of them.

Her funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 11:00 am at Chetek Lutheran Church with visitation beginning at 10:00 am. Following the funeral service will be a time for sharing memories over cake and coffee.

Last Update: Jun 12, 2025 8:14 am CDT