Lavon E. Kirk

LaVon E. Kirk of Cozad, Nebraska, died Sunday, January 14, 2018 at Silverado Memory Care in Encinitas, California at the age of 85. LaVon was born October 30, 1932 in Cozad, Nebraska, to Max and Ida (Ostendorf) Gayman. She graduated from Cozad High School in 1950 and attended Kearney State College where she obtained her teaching certificate. LaVon married Melvin Kirk on August 16, 1953 in Cozad. Their marriage was blessed with four girls, Jamie, Marcia, Michelle and Jennifer. LaVon had a lifelong love for children and taught country school in the Cozad area for years. Later she owned her own preschool until she retired from teaching. LaVon and Melvin owned and operated Kirk's Trenching and Excavating until Melvin retired in 2005. LaVon was a friendly, compassionate person who was willing to help anyone. Gardening was a favorite past time of hers and one could usually find her outside tending her raspberries or peonies. She enjoyed traveling with Melvin to visit their daughters and grandchildren. Lavon's family was always her number one priority and her role as a grandmother was no different. La Von was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin; her parents; and brothers, Gene and Ron. Survivors include four daughters, Jamie Krason of San Diego, California, Marcia (Monte) Hueftle of Bonsall, California, Michelle (Jason) Young of Omaha, Nebraska and Jennifer (Kevin) Gengenbach of Cozad, Nebraska; a sister, Faye Fetter of Lawndale, California; seven grandchildren, Jordan (Becky) Krason, Jessica (Nick) Nelson, Kate (Jeff) Mettee, Cory and Caleb Young, Haley and Emily Gengenbach; and 4 great grandchildren. A Celebration of her life is planned for the end of May. Cremation was chosen. A memorial has been established in her memory for later designation. Berryman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.