STERLING – LaVerne G. Chaney, 82, of Sterling, died Saturday, Feb. 13, 2010, at CGH Medical Center.

He was born Oct. 4, 1927, in Ottawa, the son of Herbert and Ella (Lane) Chaney. He served in the Army during World War II as a sergeant.

LaVerne married Victoria Garcia. He later married Dorothy Worthington. He then married Sherry Thorman on July 4, 1986.

LaVerne was the owner of Chaney Cycle Sales, Sterling, for many years. He also worked as a welder for 13 years at the former Northwestern Steel and Wire Co., Sterling. Earlier in his life, LaVerne raced, and enjoyed attending motorcycle races and hill climbs. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapping, and taking long car rides.

Surviving are his wife, Sherry; his children, Charles (Connie) Chaney, Sheila (Foster) Fike, and Cindy (Wayne) St. Clair, all of Sterling, Pam (Kern) Smith of Dixon, Becky (Jim) Harper of St. Louis, Kim Garza of Kentucky, Michael Chaney of Texas, and Leslie Nicewanner of Sterling; his stepchildren, Becky (Rob) Reiling of Atkinson, Laura (Dave) Grimes and Shelly (Vernon) Jaquet, both of Tampico, Paul (Carrie) Thorman of Clinton, Iowa, and Steven (Trish) Thorman of Clarksville, Tenn.; one sister, Ella (Gene) Morrall of Marseilles; special friend, Michael Crofton of Franklin Grove; 21 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; 13 stepgrandchildren; and three step-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Michael in infancy; three brothers; and one grandson.

Memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at McDonald-Allen-Grennan Funeral Home, 505 First Ave., Sterling, with Deacon Larry Zitkus of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Sterling, officiating, followed by military honors. Cremation rites have been accorded. Interment will be at a later date. A gathering of friends and family will be from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Visit www.mcdonaldfuneralhomes.com to send condolences.