Our blessed mother, friend and mentor, Verna Jensen Thode, 91, went to be with her Lord March 1, 2020. She passed peacefully at home after losing her battle with an aggressive form of cancer.
Verna was born in Onalaska, Jan. 6, 1929, to John and Grace Jensen. She was resided in Lewis County most of her life, but also in Issaquah, Wash. 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 United States 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 was preceded in death by her loving husband, Lester; three brothers; and one sister.
She is survived by her children and their spouses, Roger (Lila) Thode, James (Nancy) Thode, Robert (Martha) Thode and Carol (Peter) Bézy; one brother; and two sisters. She was blessed with 10 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and eight great-great-grandchildren!
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 at 9:30 a.m., March 7, 2020, 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.
