Dear friends in Christ,

My family and I want to send our deep appreciation to Bishop Schaefer, Bishop Benoway, Bishop Trexler, Pastor Don Hillerich from Village on the Isle, Pastor Robert Hall, Pastor Wally Meyer, our dear granddaughter, Pastor Kimberly vanDriel, who planned and participated in the memorial services for Lavern, and all the pastors, lay workers and friends who attended one of the services.

Lavern delighted in serving his Lord through the church, and your presence there touched our hearts, as a gesture that he had touched the lives of others.  We thank and Praise God that Lavern had an opportunity over many years to do the ministry he loved, often side by side with many of you.

The services brought us comfort as well as joy in the faithfulness of our amazing God. Lavern and I walked together many years, wonderful years of family togetherness, Christian community and fellowship, all of which brought us much happiness. Thank you all for being there to help complete his journey on earth and for supporting our family and me as we continue our earthly walk without him by our side.

May God continue to bless each of you as you continue your own journeys in His service.

Your friend in Christ,

MaryAnn Franzen