Laverne Robert Piepke, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2023, in Drumheller, AB. Born on August 3, 1948, in Cloverdale, BC, Laverne was known for his friendly and caring nature, his love for horses, and his passion for farming. Laverne was a man of many talents and interests. He attended public school in Torrington and later pursued a B-Pressure Welder course at SAIT. His education laid the foundation for a successful career as a B-Pressure Welder and a cattle and grain farmer. Laverne was a hardworking man who took great pride in his work. His dedication to his craft was evident in the quality of his work and the respect he earned from others.Beyond his professional life, Laverne was a man who loved the simple pleasures of life. He had a deep affection for horses and found joy in traveling. However, his greatest love was family and farming. He found solace in the fields and pastures, working to provide for his family. His caring nature extended beyond his family to his friends and community.When Laverne was 17 years old he attended a high school dance in Acme where he met the love of his life, Maxine Taylor and 3 years later at the age of twenty they were married. This year is their 55th Wedding Anniversary. Laverne is survived by his loving wife, Maxine Piepke, and their three children: daughter Kathy (Hans) Philipsen, and sons Bryan (Nancy) Piepke and Todd (Jayme) Piepke. He was a proud grandfather to Kurt (Christa), Mark (Cheryl), Scott (Ariel), Matt (Becca), Miranda (Dylan) Balaski, Alicia (Luuk) Scheele, Brannon, Jersey, and Shelby. Laverne was also blessed with 11 great-grandchildren: Leira, Aiden, Soren, Bryce, Cody, Carter, and Maci, Brooks, Nash, Kaden, and Ella. And 2 more due in November. He is also survived by his sisters, Stella Poffenroth and Aleta Greke. Laverne was predeceased by his parents, John and Pauline Piepke; sisters Violet (Tony) Greke, Doris (Jake) Prohl, Muriel (Len) Wiens; brother-in-law Dennis Poffenroth; and sister-in-law Valerie Bryant. Despite the loss of these loved ones, Laverne carried their memories in his heart, sharing stories and lessons from his past with his family.Laverne’s life was a testament to his values of hard work, love for family, and passion for his interests. His friendly and funny nature made him a joy to be around, and his caring spirit touched the lives of many. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.As we remember Laverne, we celebrate a life well-lived and a man well-loved, his memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and in the fields he so lovingly tended. Rest in peace, Laverne Robert Piepke.Services were held Saturday, September 16th, 2023 at the Acme Community Centre. Laverne was laid to rest at the Swalwell Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to St. John the Divine Anglican Church, PO Box 196, Acme AB T0M 0A0. To send condolences please visit www.sunsetltd.ca.
