Born on March 7, 1926, to John (Jacob) and Celia Poloy in Chicago, Illinois, LaVerne grew up in Blue Island, where she cultivated her independent spirit and sharp wit. After high school, she embarked on a career at the Illinois Central Railroad in downtown Chicago, where she proudly served as the assistant to the President. It was there she met her best friend, Barbara Crosse, and the love of her life, Gordon Wallace “Wally” Kellogg. LaVerne and Wally married on September 13, 1947, beginning a lifetime of adventure together.

In 1972, the Kellogg family relocated to Boulder, Colorado, a place that quickly became LaVerne’s true home. She embraced the Colorado lifestyle with her signature enthusiasm, forging deep friendships, enjoying the great outdoors, and always making time for a game of cards. LaVerne was the kind of woman who knew how to have a good time—whether that meant hosting lavish gathering for family and friends, sipping a cocktail at happy hour, or delighting in a shopping spree.

Above all, LaVerne was fiercely devoted to her family. She is survived by her four children: Gordon, Daniel (Micky), Timothy (Maureen), and Barbara Kellogg-Garner (Daniel). She took immense pride in her grandchildren: Kelly, Jennifer deLoizaga (Frederic), Jillian Garner-Nakayama (Matt), Jordan Garner (Oscar Morales-Lorenzo), Jessica, Danny, Brianne, and Christopher, as well as step-grandchildren Audrey Marold (Patrick) and Vince Garner. Laverne was also a cherished great-grandmother to Michael Simpson, Genevieve deLoizaga, William Garner-Nakayama, Alexandra Garner, Victoria Garner, Katy and Luca Marold, Hailey (Mitchie) Kellogg, and Milo Payne.

LaVerne’s home was always filled with warmth—not only from the love of her family but also from the many pets she adored throughout the years. Buddy, Roxie, Jake, Molly, Roy, Kodi, Baby, Misty, Dutchy, Peggy, and Fritti. She had a soft spot for her four-legged companions, showering them with affection and treating them like royalty.

She was preceded in death by her husband Gordon Wallace, her dear sister, Irene Helwig, and countless friends and family members who surely welcomed her with open arms at Heaven's gate.

LaVerne lived life on her own terms, with humor, kindness, and a bit of mischief. She leaves behind a family who will carry forward her love of life, her competitive spirit, and her unwavering belief that every day is an opportunity to celebrate.

A Celebration of Life will be held to honor LaVerne on Sunday, March 30th at Hyland Hills Senior Living in the Sky Lounge from 3:30- 6:30pm. Light appetizers and refreshments will be served.
9560 Sheridan Blvd, Westminster, CO 80031

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you raise a glass, make a donation to Boulder Humane Society, or take a moment to appreciate the joy of a life well-lived—just as Laverne would have wanted.