LaVerne Charles Stites

September 25, 1947 - January 21, 2022

ADRIAN – LaVerne Charles Stites, 74, of Adrian, MI died unexpectedly at his home on Friday, January 21, 2022. Born September 25, 1947 in Adrian, he was the son of Lloyd J. and Margaret Helen (Shourds) Stites. LaVerne grew up in Tecumseh and graduated in 1965 from Tecumseh High School. Following high school, he began his employment at Peerless Gear, a division of Tecumseh Products. Beginning in 1966 LaVerne enlisted in the United States Army where he proudly served until 1969 in Okinawa, Japan. He was a proud Vietnam War Veteran. Upon returning stateside, LaVerne married the mother of his children, Jane Iffland on March 8, 1969 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Blissfield. He also returned to his employment at Peerless Gear as Paymaster until the early 1990’s. LaVerne then began his employment in the office at Merillat Cabinetry for several years until his retirement. A man of faith, LaVerne had strong convictions and was very kind-hearted. LaVerne was very giving and generous with his time, talents, and resources and loved helping everyone. In his spare time, he enjoyed fishing and hunting. LaVerne was a beautiful artist and worked with many medias. Whether it was a painting, a personalized birthday card for his grandchildren, or calligraphy, he loved creating works of art. He also enjoyed working with computers. LaVerne is survived by his children, Jennifer (Eddie) Rohde of Blissfield, Jason (Jennifer) Stites of Adrian, and Heather Stites of Adrian; three grandchildren, whom he loved spending time with, Allison Rohde, Alex Rohde, and Masen Stites; brother, Allen Stites of Tecumseh; and friend and mother of his children, Jane Stites of Blissfield. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jeromy Stites, earlier this month; grandson, Ian Stites; and siblings, Jimmie Stites, Gordon Stites, and Diana Funk. Per LaVerne’s request, cremation will take place. Graveside services for LaVerne will be held on Monday, January 31, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at Pleasant View Cemetery in Blissfield. Pastor Brian Comiskey will be officiating, and military honors will be conducted. Wagley Funeral Home, Adrian has been entrusted with arrangements, where online memories and condolences may be shared at www.wagleyfuneralhome.com. To honor LaVerne, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Veterans and/or Military Organization of one’s choice.