LaVaughn was born September 1, 1927 to Edwin and Sophia (Larson) Nerstad. She was baptized, confirmed, and married at Scheie Lutheran Church, a life-long member of Scheie and WELCA. She attended country school in Riceford, public school in Spring Grove, and Mabel High School where she graduated in 1945. On February 2, 1947, during a snow storm, she married Donald (Mike) Marsden. They have resided on the farm, that her mother grew up on, for 61 of 62 years of their marriage. LaVaughn was a homemaker, wife, mother, and grandmother. In addition to being a homemaker she sold Avon for 25 years, was a 4-H parent, and an active member of her circle.
After being seriously ill, she began walking to build up her strength. Initially she started to walk outside – adding another mailbox each week until she mastered walking to the Preble Town Hall and back. She later walked on the tread mill for ninety minutes every day. She enjoyed walking and missed it the last eight years after her first stroke. She enjoyed housework, yard work, flowers, and pets. She loved spending time with her family and friends; her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren brought joy to her life.
LaVaughn passed away Friday, July24, 2009 at the Green Lea Manor Nursing Home in Mabel at the age of 81.
LaVaughn is survived by her husband Mike; her children Danny (Linda) of Mabel, Debbie of Rochester, and Lisa (Bob) Ruehmann of Kasson, Minnesota; seven grandchildren Amy (Dave) Norby, Paula (Scott) Hicks, Jon (Tanya) Marsden, Taylor (Jen) Marsden, Danielle Marsden, Chandler Ruehmann, and Cameron Ruehmann; seven great grandchildren Abbey and Brooke Norby, Carter Hicks, and Mallory, Hailey, Anna, and Kolton Marsden. She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant daughter; great granddaughter Riley Norby; two sisters Elvina Olson and Eunice Johnson.
Funeral services will be 11 A.M. Saturday, August 1, 2009 at the Scheie Lutheran Church in rural Mabel with the Rev. Mary Waudby officiating. Burial will be in the Choice Cemetery. Visitation will be 4–8 PM Friday, July 31 at the Mengis Funeral Home in Mabel and one hour prior to services at the church. |
