EMINGTON - LaVerne Emory Canham Sr., 86, Emington, passed away Wednesday (July 8, 2009) at OSF Saint James-John W. Albrecht Medical Center, Pontiac.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A private memorial service will be at a later date. Martin-Burke Funeral Home, Cullom, is in charge of arrangements.

He was born Sept. 11, 1922, the son of Emory and Ruth Collins Canham. He married Connie Petrozza on Feb. 27, 1944, and enjoyed 65 years with her. She survives.

Also surviving are his sister, Estelene (Jack) Cook, St. Louis, Mo.; his children, LaVerne (Jeanne) Canham, Emington, and Cheryl (Chuck) Boswell, Rio Rancho, N.M.; five grandchildren, Laura McBrierty, Julia (Chadd) Morrissy, Chad (Cathy) Boswell, Brad Boswell and Jason Boswell; and five great-grandchildren, Luke and Sela Boswell, Emily and Miranda Boswell and Ethan Morrissy.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

His life was the pillar of this family.

LaVerne graduated from the University of Illinois in three years with honors. He was a World War II veteran and served in the Pacific Theater, coming home as a first lieutenant. He was a Cub Scout leader, 4-H leader, school board member, township supervisor, county board chairman, a Mason, a Shriner and 20-year member of the Saint James Hospital Auxiliary.

LaVerne loved living his life, maintaining the family farm he was born on, as well as reading to and entertaining grandchildren.

This obituary may be viewed, and private condolences sent to the family online at: www.martin-burkefuneralhome.com.