Post Messenger Recorder -

LaVerne H. Crooks, age 72 of Monticello, died unexpectedly on Thursday, January 4, 2018, at the Monroe Clinic Hospital. LaVerne was born on November 27, 1945, in Monroe; he graduated from Monroe High School in 1963 and attended Highland College in Freeport.

He married Judy Strause on July 9, 1966, at the Zwingli United Church of Christ in Monticello. He entered the U.S. Army in August 1966, and was honorably discharged in August 1968, after serving in Vietnam. LaVerne was employed in sales at Industrial Combustion for 35 years before retiring in 2010. He loved spending time with his family and was always eager to attend his grandchildren's events. LaVerne was a member of the Monroe Moose Lodge #754, Monticello American Legion Amstutz-Marty Post #256, and served as Monticello Village Board president for nine years. LaVerne was always willing to help out the village in any way he could, including preparing the ball diamond for games, working the concession stand, or running the scoreboard. He enjoyed going to auctions, playing cards, bowling, throwing horseshoes, John Deere collectibles, and the Montesian Gardens.

He is survived by his wife, Judy Crooks of Monticello; four children, Stephanie (John) Beckwith of Monticello, Gregory (Jodi) Crooks of Oregon, WI, Paula (Jon) Kneser of Germantown, and Christopher (Amanda) Crooks of Monroe; eight grandchildren, Kelsey and Dylan Beckwith, Carissa and Zachary Kneser, Alexys and Joshua Crooks, and Cole and Cody Vaccaro; a brother, Dennis (Sue) Crooks of Orangeville, IL; a sister, Karen (Ron) Martini of Monroe; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Edna Leuzinger; and a sister, Virginia Askey.

A memorial visitation was held on Tuesday, January 9, 2018, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., at the Monroe Moose Lodge, 639 3rd Avenue, with a Moose Memorial Service held at 7:00 p.m.

As an expression of sympathy in lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established in LaVerne's name.

The Voegeli-Newcomer Funeral Home, Monticello, is assisting the family. Condolences may be shared at http://www.newcomerfuneralhome.net.