Verna J Thode

Our blessed mother, friend, and mentor, Verna Jensen Thode, went to be with her Lord on March 1, 2020. She passed peacefully at home after losing her battle with an aggressive form of cancer; she was 91. Verna was born on January 6, 1929, in Onalaska to John and Grace Jensen. She resided in Lewis County most of her life but also in Issaquah, WA. Verna attended Onalaska, Napavine, and Big Hanaford Schools. Many who knew her will remember the successful strawberry farm that she and her husband ran. The farm is located just outside of Chehalis, where she cared for her growing family. She was a skilled gardener, craftsman, and cook. One of her favorite things to do was to gather family and friends for shared meals and events. She spent her life taking care of others, and always felt this was the purpose of her being. In retirement years, Les and Verna traveled extensively throughout the U.S. and Mexico. After Les passed, she dedicated her time to spreading the word of Christ and studying the bible, even venturing to Isreal and South America. Additionally, she was active with the Napavine Assembly of God, Jesus Film Project, Campus Crusade for Christ, and enjoyed her time with Silver Sneakers. Verna is preceded in death by her loving husband, Lester. She is survived by her children and their spouses: Roger (Lila) Thode, James (Nancy) Thode, Robert (Martha) Thode, Carol (Peter) Bézy. She was blessed with ten grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren! She is preceded in death by three brothers and one sister and is survived by one brother and two sisters. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Bev Holt and Lydia Stajduhar, caregivers, and to the Assured Hospice for their loving-kindness and compassion. A funeral service will be held at Napavine Assembly of God on March 7, at 9:30 a.m. with Pastor Jim Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Claquato Cemetery. A potluck luncheon will be subsequently served at the church. Cattermole Funeral Home, located in Winlock, is handling the funeral arrangements. Charitable donations may be made to Napavine Assembly of God, Jesus Film Project, Campus Crusade for Christ, and the American Cancer Society.

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