Lavern (Bud) Kieffer

LaVern "Bud" Kieffer, age 89 of Hastings, died suddenly but peacefully on Friday evening, October 20, 2017, at his home. LaVern George, the son of Michael and Marie (Wagner), was born on October 6, 1928, in Hastings. Following his education, Bud enlisted in the United States Navy and was later granted an honorable discharge. On December 4, 1956, he was united in marriage to Darlene Breuer, and were blessed with six children. Darlene later preceded him in death on August 19, 2016. Bud was a construction worker and hobby farmer. He loved being a farmer and taking care of his pigs, chickens, and land. Most of all, Bud loved spending time on his tractor. After his retirement, Bud and Darlene spent thirty years wintering in Apache Junction, Arizona, where he enjoyed playing shuffle board with friends. He also enjoyed fishing, listening to polka music, and was an avid Twins fan. He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Larry, Delores, Viola, and Mary; and recently by his wife, Darlene. Bud is survived by his children, Dennis (Pam) Kieffer, Denise (Mike) Dufour, Danette Kremer, David (Sue) Kieffer, Donna Ryan, and Deidra (Joe) Murr; his 17 grandchildren, Derek, Dallas, Travis, LaTahnee, Gabrielle, Mitchell, Alex, Jace, Joshua, Sharee, Tyler, Casey, Megan, Mallory, Austin, Molly and Evan; 14 great grandchildren; and by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, October 27, 2017, at Cottage Grove United Church of Christ, 7008 Lamar Ave So., Cottage Grove, with Reverend Bryan Olsen officiating. Military Honors will be provided by the Hastings VFW Lyle Russell Post #1210. Interment will be held at Cross of Christ Cemetery, Welch, following the luncheon. Visitation will be held 5-8 p.m. Thursday at Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home Cremation Services of Hastings, and will continue for one hour prior to the service at church on Friday morning. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Hastings Senior Center, Cottage Grove United Church of Christ, or to the donors choice in memory of Bud. Arrangements are being completed by Caturia-Smidt Funeral Home Cremation Services of Hastings.