Laverne Henry Wetzel

LaVerne Henry Wetzel, was born January 6, 1946 in Dodge City, KS, the son of Harry H. and Dora Froetschner Wetzel. He entered into respite care with Hospice of the Prairie on August 19, 2024 and passed away at his home early Sunday morning, September 1, 2024, at the age of 78.

LaVerne was baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church, Offerle, KS. He attended school at Offerle and graduated in 1964. Following high school, LaVerne attended Fort Hays State University, majoring in English Literature. In 1965, when his father became ill, he returned to the Offerle community to help with the family farm. He continued with the family farm with his two brothers, Leroy and Steven as Tri-W Farms for several years. During that time LaVerne became the Pioneer Seed Sales Representative for the area, building up a large client base over the years. In addition to the seed business he also sold electric motors and pumps for irrigation and provided parts and service for Zimmattic Irrigation Systems as well as operating a trenching business. Tyree Ag of Kinsley continues to operate the seed business today.

For many years LaVerne was involved with the Edwards County Conservation District, including a lengthy term as Supervisor. LaVerne also served several terms as a County Commissioner for Edwards County and also served on the board for Lewis Commodities, Lewis, KS.

In 1970, LaVerne married Ceil Fox and to this union two children, Russell and Melanie were born.

He is survived by longtime companion, Cathy Woolard and her family, his daughter Melanie Wetzel, granddaughter Jasmine Carias, two brothers, Leroy (Janet), Steven (Pam) both of Offerle, KS and one sister, Joanne (Greg) VanCoevern of Salina, KS, many nieces and nephews, and a large group of friends.

He was predeceased by his son, Russell Wetzel, his parents, Harry H. and Dora Wetzel and 1 sister, Kathleen S. Pickard.

A visitation, with the family present will take place Friday, Sept. 6 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at McKillip Memorial Funeral Home, 623 Marsh Avenue, Kinsley, KS 67547

Funeral services will be conducted by Pastor Stanley Palmer on Saturday, September 7 at 2:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 13307 Jewel Road, Offerle, KS with the inurnment following the service at St. Nicholas Cemetery, Hwy 56 & 90 Ave., Kinsley, KS.

A funeral dinner will be hosted by the family following the inurnment and will be held at the Edwards County 4-H Building, Niles Ave. (Hwy 183) and E. 13th Street, Kinsley, KS.