Laverne Darr

Ralph Laverne Darr, 93, passed away at Azria Health Winterset on Monday, March 2, 2026.

Laverne was born June 4, 1932, to Ralph and Albena Darr of Polk City, Iowa, and graduated from Ankeny High School in 1950. During 1952-1956, Laverne served his country as an Air Force mechanic on the historic B-36 Peacemaker.

In March 1961, he married Corrine Cook of Ogden, Iowa. For ten years they farmed with the Darr family near Polk City, then moved in 1971 to their own acreage east of Winterset along the Middle River, where they raised corn, soybeans, and their three children. In addition to farming, Laverne drove school buses for the Winterset district for 28 years and was proud of being one of the longest-term drivers.

Laverne had many interests, but his favorites were the ones he shared with Corrine, including bowling, roller skating, volleyball, square dancing, the Darr croquet tournaments on Thanksgiving and Father’s Day, movies at the theater in Indianola, car races, many many trips and travels with friends, and thousands of late-night card games. Their marriage lasted 60 years until Corrine’s death in 2021, and he will join her once again in an eternal partnership at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery.

Laverne was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Albena; wife, Corrine; and brother, Frank “Tom” Darr.

He is survived by his children, Terry Darr, Diane (Jim) Weyrauch, and Laurie (Art) Senn; grandchildren, Emily, Patrick, Ryan, and Jamie; and brother, Marlin (Deanna) Darr.

The family wishes to thank Azria Health and Every Step Hospice for their care of Laverne.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 20, 2026 at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family for a future designation.