Verle Norman Taylor, 93, of Albert Lea, passed away of natural causes on Feb. 28, 2013, at the Ecumen Prairie Lodge in Brooklyn Center. Funeral services will be at Bonnerup Funeral Home, 2210 E. Main St., Albert Lea, at 1 p.m. March 9. The Rev. James Kassera of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Albert Lea will be leading the service. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service to allow for private goodbyes. All are welcome at a memorial luncheon following the service. During this time, anyone wishing to honor Verle by sharing personal memories will be invited to do so. Interment will take place following the luncheon at St. Peter Cemetery in New Richland.

Verle was born Sept. 22, 1919, on the family farm in Waseca County to William and Cora (McColley) Taylor. He spent most of his younger life in and around Albert Lea learning all aspects of farming and proved to be a dedicated and hard worker. He especially loved working with horses. He was a decorated veteran of World War II, where he served with the 440th Battalion as an anti-aircraft gunner all across Europe.

Verle was married first to Ella Cowan, also of Albert Lea, in 1941. Three daughters were born to this union: Patricia Lynn, Julie Ann and Elva Leone (Scotty). He then married Sylvia (Olson) Francis on Aug. 31, 1974, in Albert Lea.

Verle was knowledgeable and skilled in many areas of craftsmanship, including farming, automotive, home remodeling and woodworking. He worked for Enderes Tool Co. of Albert Lea, for 13 years, until his retirement in 1985. He carried his knowledge, loyalty and dedication with him throughout his life, always endeavoring to use it to help others.

Verle is survived by his loving wife, Sylvia; daughters Patricia (Lou) Felix, Julie McEwan, and Scotty (Gary) Spohr; stepdaughters, Yvonne (Keith) Goodmanson, and Sherry Kuns; stepson, Wally (Stephanie) Francis; along with many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be missed by all who knew him, loved him, and came to depend on him.