LaVerne “Vern” Westphal of Fort Meyers, FL, formally of Madison, WI, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2026, surrounded by family at the age of 87. He was born on April 20, 1939, to Ludwig and Elsa (Schultz) Westphal in Hillpoint, WI. He married Dolores “Dee” (Carpenter) Westphal and together they shared 45 wonderful years. 

Vern was a God-loving and giving, Christian man, who dedicated his life to family and friends. He enjoyed and loved his family and was a collector of John Deere memorabilia. He was a member of Thrive Community Church and also Zion Lutheran Church. 

Vern is survived by his wife, Dee Westphal; son, Steve (Patti) Westphal, daughters, Maria (Mark) Radtke and Linda Sue (Randy) Schultz, step-daughter, Laurie Wheeler, step-son, Richard (Traci) Carpenter; 18 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and 1 great, great-grandchild. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Wisconsin and also in Florida.

ARRANGEMENTS BY: THE BRICE W. HERNDON AND SONS FUNERAL HOMES AND CREMATORY, WALTERBORO CHAPEL, 1193 Bells Highway, Walterboro, 843.538.5408. Visit the registry online at: www.briceherndon.com.