LaVerne “Vern” Dale Kraft died Tuesday, Aug. 13. He was 79.

Vern was born to his late parents Clifford and Daun (Curtis) Kraft on June 11, 1945, in Allegan. He married Judith “Judy” (Morris) Kraft on March 5, 1965, and they would share 59 faithful years of marriage together. He would tell Judy every day that he loved her.

Vern would graduate high school and start working at the original Mobile Gas Station in Hopkins for five years, then 22 years at Rockwell, three years at Sebright Products, five years with Plainwell Paper, five years at Haworth, eventually retiring from Hamilton Farm Bureau.

Vern was a man of many talents and accomplishments. He could fix anything and would lend a hand to any friend, stranger or neighbor. He could talk your ear off, but that was a good thing, his knowledge of everything and anything was encouraging too all. He would often say he had a “Journeyman Card” in talking.

He loved woodworking and had become accomplished, spending time in his woodshop, creating whatever came to mind, which gave him peace.

He also enjoyed watching and fully supported his Michigan Tigers and Lions sports teams. He spends a lot of time at Hopkins United Methodist Church as a lifelong memberHe wore a hat that said, “Jesus is my Boss” on his trips to cancer treatments and a license plate that read “God is my Co-Pilot”.

Vern was making waves and allowing for conversations to be had about people’s beliefs and thoughts on their eternity. Vern left a legacy of love and commitment.

Vern is survived by his wife Judith “Judy” (Morris) Kraft; children Kristene Schumacher, Julie (David) Tahaney and Dale (Kendra) Kraft; siblings Ronald and (Linda) Kraft; grandchildren Grant (Hannah Margaret) Schumacher, Luke (Macaela) Schumacher, Allison Schumacher, Jessica (Andrew) Steffes, Derek (Michelle) Tahaney, Blake (Joslyn) Kraft, Noah (Cassidy) Kraft, Raegan (Logan) Blank; great-grandchildren Mason Steffes, Natalie Kraft, Will Kraft, Eli Tahaney and Julia Tahaney.

Preceded in death were Vern’s parents Clifford and Daun (Curtis) Kraft; siblings Elwin Kraft and Rozella Smith.

Vern’s Memorial service will be at Hopkins United Methodist Church at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 17, officiated by Rev. Kelsey French with an hour visitation beforehand. Luncheon to follow the service at the fellowship hall next door to the church.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in Laverne’s name to the Hopkins United Methodist Building Fund, P.O. Box 356, Hopkins, MI 49328