Laverne E. 'Grandma Happy' Sokolowski

Laverne E. (Mroch) Sokolowski, who was known as “Grandma Happy,” passed away on Wednesday, August 20, 2008, at the age of 93 at Ridgewood Care Center with her loving family by her side.

Laverne was born on May 20, 1915, in Racine to Charles and Laura (nee: Krueger) Mroch. After her father’s death at a young age her mother married her stepfather, John Levandowsky. Laverne attended schools in Racine and graduated from Horlick High School in 1933. She earned three “R” letters in sports. Laverne loved watching basketball. She was honored by Jay Hammes, the Athletic Director, in 2004 with a plaque for attending more than 550 plus games over the last 55 years, out of town, in town semifinals games, and one state championship at Madison. Laverne especially enjoyed watching Horlick Football, seeing her only great grandson, Shaun LaFever, who played for Horlick. She was a true dedicated “Rebel” fan!!

Laverne was united in Marriage to Ignacious “Nick” P. Sokolowski on July 15, 1939. They were married 46 years at the time of his death in 1986. Laverne was employed by Western Printing for 20 years, retiring in 1976. Retirement couldn’t keep her home so she worked as a crossing guard, at Dania Hall for 17 years catering weddings and parties and at Dee Dee’s restaurant in the kitchen for 8 years. In her spare time she bowled, played cards with her friends in the Horlick K.I.T. Club from the class of '33, until her health deteriorated. She loved to dance, sew and knit as a hobby. She was also active in Kilties and Elks youth band. Most importantly she loved spending quality time with her family and friends.

Laverne is survived by her son, Ronald Sokolowski, Sr. and daughter in law, Judy Sokolowski; grandchildren, Laurie (Kevin) LaFever, Diana (Todd Bindel) Sokolowski, and Ronald Sokolowski, Jr.; great grandchildren, Shaun (Amber Friso) LaFever, Nicole and Taylor LaFever, Britney and Caitlin Bindel, whom she loved dearly. She is also survived by a sister in law, Lillian Sokolowski; a brother in law, Lenny Sokolowski; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to her loving husband, parents, and stepfather, she was preceded in death by brothers in law and sisters in law.

Laverne wanted to say a special thanks to her dearest friend, Lillian Rondone, for always being there for her. Love Ya!!

Special thanks to Judy Sokolowski for going out of her way to help care for Laverne in any way that she could..

Thanks to all of the staff at Ridgewood and Odyssey Hospice for all the comfort and compassion given to Laverne and also to the LaFever Family for delivering health shakes and putting a smile on her face.

Memorials can be made to the family, the Horlick Basketball Athletic Fund, St. John’s Lutheran Church or one’s favorite charity.

Funeral Services for Laverne will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, August 26, 2008, at 11 a.m. with Rev. Daniel B. Quinn officiating. Interment will follow in Mound Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home on Tuesday from 9 a.m. until the time of services.

Purath-Strand Funeral Home & Crematory
3915 Douglas Ave., Racine (262) 639-8000