LaVern Dale Lewis

Today we gather in love, in sorrow, and in deep gratitude as we honor the life of LaVern Dale Lewis.

LaVern’s life began on January 18, 1930, on the family farm outside Ross, North Dakota—a harsh environment shaped by his ancestry's Norwegian traits of hard work, faith, and the togetherness of family. Born the third son among seven children, LaVern grew up in a household of love and devotion, guided by the steady hands and hearts of his parents, William and Emma Troite Lewis.

Those early years on the farm formed the foundation of who LaVern would become: humble, devoted, resilient and hardworking. He carried those attributes with him throughout his life.

While serving in the Korean War, LaVern married Vada Potter, beginning a partnership that would last more than 70 years. Their marriage was not only long—it was deep, loving, and extraordinary. LaVern and Vada were soulmates in every sense of the word. They moved through life side by side, supporting one another with quiet devotion, shared strength, and a love that never wavered.

Together they raised two daughters—Connie, married to Kyle Kohler, and Kelly, married to Gary Francom—who became the heart of LaVern’s world. Over the years, his family grew, and he embraced each new generation with pride and tenderness. He was blessed with nine grandchildren and nineteen great‑grandchildren, each one carrying a piece of his legacy forward.

LaVern devoted his professional life to creating. As a construction engineer, he worked on remarkable projects that shaped landscapes and communities. He contributed to the construction of dams along the Columbia River, helped build a golf course on the island of Kauai, and worked on many other projects that stand as quiet monuments to his skill and intelligence.

Though LaVern was a quiet man, he was also extremely smart—the kind of person who didn’t need to announce his knowledge. His brilliance showed in his work, in his problem‑solving, and in the thoughtful, steady way he approached his life.

We feel the weight of loss today because LaVern mattered deeply. His presence shaped our families, our memories, and the rhythm of our lives. Grief is not a sign of weakness—it is the echo of love, the proof that his life intertwined with ours in meaningful ways.

On Sunday, July 19, 2026, LaVern completed his earthly journey. And while we mourn, we also trust that he is now at peace—a peace beyond pain, beyond fear, beyond the limits of this earthly world. A peace that embraces him fully and openly with the dignity that he deserves.

As we remember LaVern, let us carry forward the greatness he shared. Let us be a little kinder, a little more patient, a little more willing to reach out—because that is how he lived.

His memory becomes a blessing when we allow it to guide us. His spirit remains with us when we choose to embody the love he gave so freely.

Today, we remember LaVern Dale Lewis with gratitude for the time we had, for the family he built, for the work he accomplished, and for the legacy he leaves in every life he touched.

Memorial Service Details

Memorial Service: Saturday, July 25, 2026 at 10:00 AM 

Location: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑Day Saints 

Address: 6550 S. 2700 W., Taylorsville, Utah

Viewing: Friday, July 24 at 6:00 PM 

Location: Memorial Redwood Mortuary 

Address: 6500 S. Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah 84084

To view the services remotely, use the link to join on Zoom.