Laverne Lettinga, age 92, of Wayland, died Friday, June 20, from injuries he suffered in a traffic crash.
Verne was a proud and distinguished alumnus of Michigan State University, where he cultivated a lifelong passion for agriculture and leadership. He remained actively connected to MSU, serving on the Agricultural Advisory Board and contributing his insight and experience to help guide the future of the industry.
Besides his involvement at MSU, Vern was a dedicated board member for Wayland Union Schools, demonstrating his commitment to education and his local community. Known for his entrepreneurial spirit, Verne was involved in numerous ventures throughout his life, primarily focused on agricultural business. His innovative mindset and deep-rooted work ethic left a lasting impact on both the agricultural sector and the many communities he served.
Verne married Mildred Cutler of Wayland, on June 7, 1953. They were inducted into the Michigan Farmer’s Hall of Fame.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Mildred; brothers, Ted, Wilbur,Ralph.
He is survived by his wife, Pat; five children, Denise and George Wright of Indianapolis, IN, Allan and Lori Lettinga of Nokomis, FL, Randy Lettinga of Norton Shores, Kirt Lettinga of Grand Rapids, and Paul and Leslie Lettinga of Wayland; 12 grandchildren, Danyelle and Darryl McCallen, Ashley and Mike Brower, Matt and Katie Lettinga, Andrew and Kendall Lettinga, Mark and Samantha Lettinga, Luke and Alison Lettinga, Marcie Lettinga, Chad and Jen Lettinga, Nicole Lettinga and Joel Striegle, Kristi and Chad Groen, Mason Lettinga and Kinsee Lettinga; 10 great grandchildren; his aunt, Evelyn Dredge; many nieces and nephews; step children, Jennifer and John Klaassen of Rome City, Ind., Rich and Jennifer Van Tol of Byron Center; seven step grandchildren.
Services will be held 11 am Saturday, June 28 at Calvary Church, 304 S Main St, Wayland, with Rev. Paul Guest officiating. Burial will be at Robbins Cemetery, Yankee Springs Township. Relatives and friends may meet the family Friday from 3-8 pm at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Gideons of Hastings.
