LaVerne Bernard Hammond

LaVerne Bernard Hammond age 78 of Fredericksburg, IA died Saturday, April 12, 2024, at Hillcrest Living Campus in Sumner, IA.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 18, 2025, at Hugeback – Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in Fredericksburg with Pastor Scott Smith officiating. Interment with military honors will be held at Rose Hill Cemetery, Fredericksburg with Jordan Hammond, Tanner Johnson, Trevor Johnson, Colton Billingsley, Caden Billingsley, and Paul Brandenburg serving as pallbearers.

Friends may greet the family from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday, April 17, 2024, at Hugeback – Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in Fredericksburg. Visitation continues an hour prior to the service at the funeral home on Friday.

Hugeback – Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in Fredericksburg have been entrusted with arrangements.

Born on June 23, 1946, in Oelwein, Iowa, to Bernard and Hazel (Wickham) Hammond, LaVerne grew up in a close-knit community that shaped his warm and spirited personality.

In his youth, LaVerne attended Elgin/Fayette Schools until the eighth grade, after which he embraced a life of learning through hands-on experiences and the relationships he built. His work ethic was unparalleled, dedicating over 30 years to factory work in Fredericksburg. 

LaVerne’s life took a joyful turn when he met his future wife, JoAnn McChesney, through the kind matchmaking of his sister. Their love blossomed, and they married on August 25, 1968, in Lancaster, Missouri. The bond LaVerne and JoAnn shared was a testament to enduring love and partnership.

A proud veteran, LaVerne served in the Army from 1966 to 1968, an experience that instilled in him a sense of pride and camaraderie that he carried throughout his life. His service was later honored with a trip on the Honor Flight with grandson Tanner, an event that held great significance for him.  LaVerne spent one year serving in the Vietnam War, a chapter of his life that deepened his resilience and commitment to his fellow soldier.

LaVerne’s interests and hobbies painted the picture of a man who cherished the simple pleasures in life. His passion for woodworking was evident in the intricate pieces he crafted and sometimes sold. Mornings were often spent at the tractor club, sipping coffee and engaging in lively conversations. An avid golfer, LaVerne enjoyed the serenity of the greens, just as he relished the tranquility of fishing and the excitement of hunting.

Family was the cornerstone of LaVerne’s life. He took immense joy in following the activities and accomplishments of his grandchildren, always offering a word of encouragement or a witty remark.

Known for his particular nature, LaVerne took exceptional care of his possessions, especially his truck, which he proudly kept in pristine condition, never allowing it to touch a gravel road. This meticulousness also extended to vehicles he fixed and sold alongside his son, showcasing their shared talent and camaraderie.

LaVerne’s love for card games, particularly pegs and jokers, brought laughter and competition to many family gatherings. His sense of humor and charm made him a delightful companion, and his stories and quips will be fondly remembered by all.

A man of many loves, LaVerne’s penchant for ribs and his ever-present Diet Pepsi spoke to his enjoyment of life’s flavors, both literal and metaphorical. He was a man who lived life fully, with a loving heart, handy skills, and a spirited demeanor.

LaVerne is survived by his wife JoAnn Hammond of Fredericksburg; three children: Theresa (Todd) Johnson of Denver, Ia, LaVerne (Katie Bacus) Hammond Jr. of Washington, and Christine (Tom) Billingsley of Janesville; five grandchildren: Jordan Hammond, Tanner Johnson, Trevor Johnson, Colton Billingsley, and Caden Billingsley; several in-laws; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Bernard and Hazel (Wickham) Hammond; sister Cleon Fish; brother Rick Hammond; baby Hammond; and several in-laws.

(563) 237-6212