Laverne (Gus) Wayne Gano, age 90, passed away on April 17, 2024, in Cherokee, Iowa.
Memorial services will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at the First Church of Christ in Cherokee. Pastor David Hall will officiate. Burial will be in the Silver Lake Cemetery at Lake Park, Iowa. Visitation with the family present will begin at 9:30 a.m. until service time on June 1, 2024. Online condolences may be left at www.boothbyfuneral.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the Cherokee Fire Department or Cherokee Mid Sioux Food Bank.
He was born on September 11, 1933, in Quimby, Iowa, to the late Marvin and Irma (Booth) Gano. Gus was a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, leaving behind cherished memories for all who knew him.
Gus’ greatest joy in life was his family. In 1975, he joined hearts and families when he married Vera Mae Berding (Pick). Vera, his beloved wife, passed away in 2011, and they shared many years of love, laughter, and shared dreams. Her memory remained a source of comfort and inspiration to Gus until his passing.
Gus was a volunteer fireman for the Cherokee Fire Department from 1966 to 2001 and during a portion of that was a full-time employee of the fire department. He shared many memories with his fellow volunteer firemen including chili cookoffs and several Cherokee parades where he found great joy in dressing up in silly costumes to bring cheer to the crowds and enjoy a good laugh with his fellow volunteers.
Gus was known for his exceptional skill in fixing things. Whether it was a leaky faucet or a broken-down car, he was always there with his reliable toolkit and expertise. His willingness to lend a helping hand brought comfort to many, and his craftsmanship will be remembered fondly.
Gus’ kind and welcoming nature fostered a deep bond with his neighbors, who were like an extended family to him. The warmth of their friendships and the shared experiences created a strong sense of community that enriched his life.
In his leisure time, Gus found solace in the simple pleasures of life. He enjoyed gathering around a card table with family, friends, and his cherished neighbors, engaging in friendly competition and creating lasting memories. Additionally, he found peace and tranquility while casting his fishing line into serene waters, relishing the beauty of nature. He always looked forward to his annual fishing trip with his brothers, sons and other family members.
Gus will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, including his siblings Sharon Edwards, Rick Gano, Terry Gano (Joann), Kenny Gano (Maureen) and Rock Gano (Gwen); his children Dan Gano (deceased wife Linda) and Kim Travlos (Greg), Rick Berding (Carla), Deb Erickson (Chuck), Dave Berding (Tammy), Mark Berding (Erica) and Cory Gano (Allison); his 15 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren, 12 great-great grandchildren and a wide circle of relatives, friends, and his beloved neighbors. Gus was preceded in death by his beloved wife Vera, parents Marvin and Irma, sister Marilyn and infant brother Gary.
May Gus’ spirit find eternal peace, and may his legacy of love, kindness, and community continue to inspire us all.
