William Laven Jr.

Mankato Mortuary
1001 N. Riverfront Drive
Mankato, Minnesota 56001
507-388-2202

William "Bill" Laven Jr., age 81 of North Mankato, died Saturday, November 30, 2013 at his home, where he wanted to be, in the arms of his daughter.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., on Friday, December 6, 2013 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in North Mankato, with Rev. Peter Nosbush officiating. A visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00p.m., on Thursday, December 5, 2013 at the Mankato Mortuary, and will continue one hour before the service at church. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery in Mankato. Memorials are preferred to VINE Faith in Action.

William Raymond Laven Jr. was born December 25, 1931 to William and Frances (Keinz) Laven Sr. in Mankato, MN. He graduated from Loyola Catholic School in Mankato. Bill retired from Northern States Power after 35 years of service. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting and in his later years, he also enjoyed cooking and baking. Bill was a hard worker, giving himself, his time, and talents to causes he was passionate about, including Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, and VINE as a volunteer and former board member; until his cancer would no longer allow him to. His cooking and baking skills, which were first formulated in the Army; kept the cookie containers full. His smile that always lit up the room and bear hugs will be sadly missed by all.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Rebecca; sons, Christopher and Michael (wife, Michelle); grandchildren, Joshua and Katherine; "other daughter", Sue; former wife and friend, Barbara; sisters, Kathleen and Patricia; brother, Robert; and many nieces, nephews; all of whom he kept close to his heart.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Delores; and brother, Peter.