Lavern W. Denker

June 15, 1925 - March 8, 2016

Lavern William Denker was born on June 15, 1925 to William and Bertha (Bischoff) Denker. Lavern grew up on a farm south of Wauneta and attended St. Paul’s Lutheran School. He graduated from Wauneta High School in 1943. Lavern served in the United States Army from 1945-1946 and did a tour of duty in Japan. After returning home, he married Elinor Engel on February 2, 1947. They lived south of Wauneta where they raised their family, and Lavern farmed until he retired. In 1992, Lavern, Elinor, and Lynn moved to Wauneta. Lavern was a kind and caring man with a twinkle in his eye. He loved his family and enjoyed being around people and visiting with them. Throughout his life, he was a dedicated member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, being baptized and confirmed there. He was active in the church, serving in various capacities. He loved singing and was in the church choir. Lavern served on the Southwest Public Power District and the Wauneta Co-op Boards. He was also a member of the Wauneta American Legion. Lavern was an avid golfer and enjoyed playing golf with the Denker golfers and other Wauneta golfers, attending numerous tournaments through the years. He played softball when he was younger and also enjoyed playing horseshoes and bowling. After moving to Wauneta, he spent time volunteering in the community. Lavern Denker passed away on March 8, 2016 at Sunrise Heights Nursing Home in Wauneta, NE. He was 90 years of age. Lavern is survived by his wife Elinor; daughter, Pat Polly, of Lincoln; sons, Terry and Lynn of Wauneta; grandchildren, Ann (Rolf) Hovey of Bruce,SD; Stephanie Hand of Omaha, NE; Michael Denker of Bruce, SD, Ben (Tara) Polly of Littleton, CO; four great grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Richard Greeley of Wauneta; and nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Lois Greeley; son-in-law, Don Polly; and great grandson, Kyle Denker. Services for Lavern are planned for a later date. A Memorial has been established in Lavern’s memory. Online condolences can be left at liewerfuneralhome.com LIEWER FUNERAL HOME OF WAUNETA IS ENTRUSTED WITH ARRANGEMENTS