LaVern R. “Vern” Counseller
Age 77, passed away April 10, 2020. He was born September 21, 1942, in St. Johns, Michigan. Vern graduated from Rodney B. Wilson High School and attended LCC for fire science. He worked for Lansing Fire Department for 27 years, holding the positions of: firefighter, EMT, second driver, dispatcher and administrative assistant. After retiring from the fire department in 1992, Vern managed the Comfort Inn in Hart, Michigan, then managed Craig’s Cruisers in Silver Lake, Michigan, before moving back to Lansing in 2011 and working at Estes-Leadley Funeral Homes.
Vern is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Margaret; sons, Chris (Terri) Counseller and Tad Counseller; stepchildren, Rick Lone, Robert (Leah) Lone, Ronda (Steve) Pratt; 9 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren; and his special cat, Sassey. He was preceded in death by his son, Bob.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lansing Firefighters Local 421, Attn: Honor Guard, 419 S. Washington, Suite 305, Lansing, MI 48933, in memory of LaVern Counseller.
11 Messages to “LaVern R. “Vern” Counseller”
Print MessagesPlease Sign The Guestbook
Joe and Mary Ann Villarreal
April 10, 2020 at 8:56 pmSorry to hear of the passing of LaVern. We had some good times through high school and aftewards. Never forgot how fast the 58 Pontiac was and his 56 Chevy (Mr. Lonely). Had some great times racing. Rest In Peace.
Dale & Dorothy Wagar
April 11, 2020 at 12:37 amVern and I went to high school together and shared many fun times together. We cruised towns just having fun. He was a great buddy and friend. We doubled dated together also. He will be missed dearly. Our sincere sympathy and prayers to Margaret and all the family. May he rest in peace.
Diana Luna
April 11, 2020 at 6:03 pmMargaret and family: I am so sorry for your loss. I really enjoyed working with Vern. He was a great person to not only work with but to know. He had a sense of humor but when something had to get done, he made sure it got done. Business was first with a touch of humor (when appropriate). I know it won’t be the same at Estes without Vern; he will be greatly missed by all! You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Todd delo
April 12, 2020 at 11:06 amI have only worked with Vern for the last couple years but it sure feels like i has knew him for a life time . He was so knowledgeable on just about everything . He taught me so much and he knew just how to handle just about any situation . Thanks for all the great talks and times I will miss you more than you know .
Todd
Justin DeBoer
April 12, 2020 at 11:25 amVery great guy to work with and i will never forget him, great person with a great mind.
Gary Weber
April 12, 2020 at 1:56 pmTo Margaret and the family
Vern was like a brother to me, always with the joke or a prank! My favorite is his Speedo reference and also that he would never do the dishes so he owned stock in paper plates! He presided over Sherri and my wedding and with Margaret by his side made a very memorable wedding for the two of us!
When the two of us worked together each knew what the other needed and we worked as one.
One of the hardest working people I know.
Vern will be greatly missed but never forgotten!
Rest in peace my friend, until we see each other again!
Kelly Roe
April 14, 2020 at 8:55 amMay the love of family and friends comfort you during these ever changing and difficult days, our most heartfelt condolences. We are very sorry to hear about your loss. I remember back many years ago working with Vern at Haslett Honda and he was a good man!!
Ryan Miller
April 15, 2020 at 2:01 pmMargaret and Counseller Family,
I was very shocked to hear about Vern’s passing. He was truly a remarkable person. This is very sad news for a lot of us. When I first started with Estes-Leadley many years ago, I instantly felt welcomed by his warm and friendly personality. He truly knew how to handle almost any situation that came up. I enjoyed getting to know him over the years. I will always remember his strong work ethic. He was such a hard worker. A few times, when I had to be at the funeral home in the very, very early hours of the morning, Vern was already there- preparing for the day ahead. Thank you for the laughs over the years also. Your kindness and generosity will always be remembered. Estes-Leadley will never be the same without him. Even this past year- he contacted me when my grandfather passed away to share his condolances and wanted know the service information. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him. It was an honor to be able to know you, Vern. Heaven gained another angel for sure. We will catch up again one day, my friend.
Thomas Maier
April 15, 2020 at 3:33 pmI worked with Vern. Were partners on the ambulance and for 2 years in dispatch, he was the best !!!!
Janet Stoy Becker
April 16, 2020 at 8:44 amSorry to hear of the passing of a classmate. I remember him as a very nice young man. He will be one that is remembered as we celebrate our 60th class reunion this summer.
Dave & Sue May
April 26, 2020 at 10:39 pmTo Margaret and all the family.
We are so sorry for your loss. My dad worked with Vern on the Fire Department but I got to know him when I was 17 and went to work at Haslett Motor Sports. If Vern liked you then you had a friend for life! He was a great guy and he will be missed.
Rest in peace my friend till we meet again.