Verner M. Madsen

Laurel — Verner M. Madsen, 88, Laurel, died Nov. 30, 2020, at the Hillcrest Care Center, Laurel.

Graveside services will be 11 a.m., Dec. 7, at the Laurel Cemetery, Laurel, with Pastor Darren Timberlake officiating. Military honors will be provided by the Laurel American Legion Post #4504 and Post #54.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Wintz Funeral Home, Laurel.

Verner Maynard Madsen was born Aug. 20, 1932, in Dixon County, to Chris and Inger (Mikkelsen) Madsen. Verner and his family moved several times in Dixon and Cedar counties when he was younger. He attended country school and then moved to Wyoming for work. Verner was drafted into the Army and served from 1952-1954. Verner married LaVonne Krei July 2, 1955, at the United Methodist Church, Laurel. He worked for several different places throughout his life, including Laurel Sand & Gravel, Tri-County Co-op, Holmquist Elevator, and as a Kent Feed Dealer.

Verner was a member of the United Methodist Church, Laurel, and he held several offices there. He was also a member of the Laurel American Legion and a past member of the Lions Club.

He enjoyed bowling, golfing, camping, fishing, watching Nebraska football, spending time with his family, and the steak fry with his group of friends.

Verner is survived by his wife of 65 years, LaVonne Madsen, Laurel; daughters, Lesa Kathol, South Sioux City, and Janelle (Jeff) Cameron, Frederick, Md.; sons, Dan Madsen, Laurel, and Paul (Jean) Madsen, Saginaw, Minn.; sister-in-law, Yvonne Grimmus, Sibley, Iowa; brother-in-law, Sam Young, Chambers; 10 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Michael, July 3, 1976; brothers, Jens, Martin and Fred; and sisters, Katherine, Rose, Pauline and Leona.