LaVerne “Vernie” Allan Doering, a beloved husband, father, and cherished friend, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the Mayo Clinic Health System, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Mankato, Minnesota on March 4, 1945, to Martin and Dorothy (Missling) Doering, Vernie was a tranquil soul who dedicated his life to faith, family, farming, and community. One of six children, Vernie, affectionately called ‘Chubs’, Royce and Bob lead with a strong but faithful demeanor. 

Raised on a farm in rural Good Thunder, he cultivated a deep love for agriculture, that started with his family’s purebred Duroc operation before turning to his beloved role as a Shepard and steward of the land. Vernie was baptized into faith at St. John Lutheran Church where he attended parochial school until the 8th grade. He graduated from Mapleton High School in 1963. While there, he immersed himself in activities like football, speech, and theater, even taking on the role of sports announcer showcasing his charismatic and fun-loving nature. 

In 1966, Vernie enlisted in the Army National Guard, proudly serving his country for six years before receiving an honorable discharge in 1972. His skilled shooting earned him the sharpshooter badge with rifle bar during his service. 

On June 30, 1967, Vernie married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Knewtson, at First Christian Church in Garden City. They would go on to cherish 58 years of devoted marriage that was blessed with four children: Kari, Tammi, Ryan, and Heidi. Vernie was a humble man, known for his mischievous spirit and exceptional listening skills. He was a guiding light in their lives, quietly offering heartfelt advice and support. 

Vernie actively engaged with the Minnesota Lamb and Wool Producers, the Minnesota Suffolk Sheep Association, Blue Earth County 4-H and the Tri-County Fair Board. His dedicated and lifelong connection to St. John Lutheran Church saw him serve in various capacities, including deacon, finance committee member, trustee, and evangelism advocate. He also dedicated his time, volunteering at county and state fairs, helping with sheep shows and sharing his passion for agriculture with his grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and all who enjoyed licorice. 

In addition to his community involvement, Vernie enjoyed deer hunting with his children, teaching them all how to safely shoot and hunt, it was always a pleasure for him to say there were more girls in his hunting party than guys. He also enjoyed curling with his friends, and most importantly, spending precious moments with his loved ones. He will be remembered not only for his soft kindness but also for the love he shared deeply with those around him. 

Vernie is survived by his wife Shirley; children, Kari (Todd) Schwarz of Vernon Center, Tammi (Matt) Greenough of Lake Crystal, Ryan (Kelly) Doering of Good Thunder, and Heidi (Nate) Resch of Courtland; grandchildren, Taylor Doering, Gavin Doering, Cody Schwarz, Carter Greenough, Megan Doering, Carson Greenough, Alexandra Resch, Emmett Resch, and Sully Resch; siblings, Royce (Sharon) Doering of Good Thunder and Carolyn (Jim) Gates of Mankato; sister-in-law, Leanna Doering of Good Thunder; brother-in-law, Wayne Knewtson of Mankato; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents by Martin and Dorothy Doering; brothers, Robert and Wallace Doering; infant brother, Coral; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Josephine and Ellsworth Knewtson.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will continue to inspire those who knew him. Visitation will be held from 4-7pm, Monday, November 17, 2025 at Mankato Mortuary (1001 N. Riverfront Drive, Mankato, MN 56001). Funeral service will be 11am, Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at St. John Lutheran Church (137 Houk Street, Good Thunder, MN 56037) with visitation one hour prior. Burial with full military honors will follow at Barnard Valley View Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family, which will be shared with organizations that were dear to Vernie.

Please share a memory of Vernie with his family and watch his service livestreamed at www.mankatomortuary.com