LaVerne Couch

LaVerne T. Couch, 89, of Sidney, Nebraska passed away at the Sidney Health and Rehabilitation Facility, Sunday, Jan. 22, 2017.

LaVerne was born on Feb. 22, 1927 in Sidney to Asa and Anna (VanMark) Couch. He graduated from Sidney High School in 1945. LaVerne was on the basketball team that won the state championship for the first time in school history. A quote from the Omaha World Herald said, “LaVerne Couch, Sidney’s ace sharp shooter, was given a berth on the All-Tournament Team” and he was credited by Gregg McBride, World Herald sports writer, as being the best goal shot of the entire tournament. 

Following his high school graduation he was drafted into the United States Army. On March 25, 1956, LaVerne was united in marriage to Patricia Ann Robinson at Brandon, Neb. They had four children; Steve, Scott and twins Shari and Gary.

LaVerne was a lifelong and dedicated member of the First Christian Church. He served as elder for over 50 years as well as board chairman and trustee. He enjoyed going to the church cabin with members of the Christian Men’s Fellowship and helping with church maintenance. He was a volunteer caretaker of the lawn for many years, and was a member of the Gideon Organization.

LaVerne and brother Les had a motorcycle shop selling Indian motorcycles. His hobbies included riding his bike and motorcycle, playing basketball, collecting coins and polishing his car. His love of motorcycles continued with several trips to Sturgis, South Dakota, joined by his brothers. He took each of his children at least once. 

He worked at the Sidney United States Post Office for 39 years, retiring in 1985.

Preceding him in death were his parents, brother Les and sister-in-law Maxine Couch, mother-in-law Leona Robinson, brother-in-law Myron Robinson, brother-in-law Graydon and sister-in-law Marjorie Robinson.

Survivors include his wife Patricia Couch, brother Clarence “Sid” Couch and wife Shirley of Westminster, Colorado; four children, Steve and wife Lyn of Sidney, Scott of Gering, Neb., Shari Mintle and husband James of North Platte, Neb., and Gary of Granbury, Texas; three grandchildren, Madison Couch, Natilee Mintle and Mavrick Mintle; nephews Bruce Couch and Cory Couch; and niece Reneé Bergstrom and husband Kirk.

Funeral services were held Friday, Jan. 27 in the First Christian Church with Dr. Curtiss P. Davis officiating. Burial followed in the Greenwood Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made in LaVerne’s name to the First Christian Church. View LaVerne’s Book of Memories, leave condolences, photos and stories at www.gehrigstittchapel.com.

Gehrig-Stitt Chapel & Cremation Service, LLC was in charge of LaVerne’s care and funeral arrangements.