Luverne Jerome Tovson of Owatonna passed away peacefully Wednesday, March 6, 2019, at Owatonna Homestead Hospice House.

Funeral services are set for 11 a.m. Tuesday at Bethel Church in Owatonna. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the church. Interment will be at Brase Cemetery in Meriden Township.

Luverne was born April 4, 1940, in Manchester, the son of Leonard and Judith (Iverson) Tovson. He grew up on his parents’ family farm in Manchester. He attended school in Manchester and later graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1958.

On May 31, 1964, Luverne married Virginia Dolgner at St. John’s American Lutheran Church in Owatonna. Together, Virginia and Luverne raised registered Palomino horses on their farm near Manchester. In the 1970s they became active in the Wonder Life Program, promoting organic planting and raising of animals. They sold their farm in 1979, moving to a homestead in Lemond Township once owned by Virginia’s ancestors.

Luverne, along with his wife, lived a life of service to friends, neighbors and the community. He enjoyed genealogy, tinkering, woodworking, farm life and attending church events. He had a one-of-a-kind knack for telling stories, brightening your day and sharing peace.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia; parents Leonard and Judith; and sister, Beverly Hompe.

The family and friends extend thanks to all staff at Owatonna Homestead Hospice House for their kindness and care of Luverne and Virginia.

Memorials are preferred to Homestead Hospice House: Patient Care Fund or Heifer International.

Condolences may be expressed at www.brick-megerfuneralhome.com.