LaVerne "Vernie" Deines, age 82, of WaKeeney, passed away Saturday, November 28, 2015 at Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital. He was born in Trego Center, on November 29, 1932, to Benjamin and Pauline (Stieben) Deines.

Vernie was united in marriage to Mary Lou Opat, on October 20 1958, in Collyer. They enjoyed 57 years of marriage together. Vernie and Mary Lou owned and operated Vernie's Service Station for many years. They also worked together as custodians at Trego Community High School. He was a member of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church, the VFW, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He was especially fond of his dogs, especially "Cricket". Vernie proudly served our country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He loved to collect classic vehicles. Vernie was always in the know about sports, as he was an avid sports fan. He will be dearly missed by many friends and family.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Lou, of the family home; a brother, Edgar Deines and wife Rosetta of WaKeeney; a sister, Lillian Cochran of Great Bend; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters, Vera Stenzel, Wilma Cochran, Charlotte Hill, and Betty Zeman; and four brothers, Elmer, Carrol, Raymond, and Johnny.

Memorial services will be 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 5, 2015, at Schmitt Funeral Home, WaKeeney. Inurnment will be at WaKeeney City Cemetery.

There will be no visitation as cremation was chosen.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Kansas Veterans' Cemetery or the Walk-a-Thon for Health. Checks made to the organization may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 North 12th, WaKeeney, KS 67672.

Condolences may be sent to the family by signing the online guest book on this page.