LaVerne E. Smith

Age 87, a resident of Albuquerque since 1956, died Sunday, January 19, 2014. She is survived by her spouse Claire and her children Gary Smith of Albuquerque, NM, Alan Smith and wife Carolyn of Albuquerque, NM; Rebecca Peterson and husband Stephan of Albuquerque, NM; Rodney Smith and wife Bonnie of Portales, NM; seven grandchildren Arnold Smith, Danise Ahlen and husband Marc, Julie Kachelmeier and husband Alan; Robert Peterson, Jessica Peterson, Nicole Sanchez and Chris Funk Smith; ten great-grandchildren; and sister Audrey Sinkey and husband Ross and brother John Grapp and wife Eleanor. She was preceded in death by sisters Darlys, Carolyn, Donna and brother William. LaVerne was born on June 6, 1926 in Plainfield, IA, where she met Claire. They were married on September 14, 1942 in Los Angeles, CA. They moved back to Iowa in 1943. She pursued an education in cosmetology. She became a housewife and mother and later the family moved to Albuquerque in 1956. Her life was devoted to her husband and family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her. The family would like to thank Manzano del Sol Heath Care Center and Ambercare for the wonderful support and care of our wife and mother. A memorial service and reception will take place at the Good Samaritan Village at Manzano del Sol Chapel, 5201 Roma NE on Saturday, January 25, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Ambercare at foundation@ambercare.com or the Alzheimers Association at .