Lavern Elmer Erb, 86 of Hollister.

Lavern Elmer Erb was born on December 12, 1937 in Boone, Iowa to Elmer and Estella Erb.  At the age of 16 he joined the United States Army.  He made a career of serving his country, retiring as a Master Sergeant after 29 years and seeing combat during both the Korean Conflict and Vietnam War.  It was during his military service, he met the love of his life Gertraude “Trudy” Hanel.  The two were married on May 28, 1963 in Darmsheim, Germany.  Lavern and Trudy moved to Hollister from Fort Bragg, North Carolina.  Lavern enjoyed the Branson area and its people and undertook a new profession as tour bus driver.  He also worked several years and later retired from Silver Dollar City.

Lavern’s life was a testament to his love of God, family and country.  He was a faithful member of St. Joseph’s Anglican Church in Branson.  Time with his family was precious to him and he created many memories that will be forever cherished.  He took great pride in the United States as shown by his devotion and service in the military while also holding a special place for Germany as his second home.

Lavern passed away on February 22, 2024 at his home in Hollister at the age of 86.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Donald, Lucy, Juanita and Betty.

He will be deeply missed by his friends and family, to include his wife, Trudy Erb; his children, Peggy Erb of Reeds Spring, Michael Erb (Angela) of Kirbyville and Dale Erb (Lisa) of Ames, IA; grandson, Logan Erb & wife Miranda along with seven other grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

In Lavern’s memory, donations are suggested to Wounded Warrior Project, https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/ or by mail P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at 11:00 am in Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home and Crematory.  Honor escort provided by Warrior Watch Riders to Missouri Veterans Cemetery will be Thursday, February 29, 2024 with graveside services beginning at 2:00 pm in the cemetery and full military honors by the United States Army and BVA 913.