LaVerne Russomanno

LaVerne Russomanno

December 02, 1943 - February 01, 2026

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Obituary

LaVerne Jane Russomanno died at UW Hospital on February 1, 2026. LaVerne was an amazing person who embodied the best of human kindness.  Her compassion, generosity and warmth will be missed by her family, friends, neighbors, local baristas and dog walkers, and anyone else who had the good luck of knowing her.  

LaVerne was born in St. Louis, Missouri on December 2, 1943, and grew up there with her parents, Frances and Leo Boes, and sister, Patricia Boes.  After graduating high school in 1961, LaVerne joined the School Sisters of Notre Dame, where she earned a Bachelor of Science and was certified to teach high school math and science. Although she left the School Sisters after 10 years, she remained dedicated to teaching and serving others, working as a teacher at St. Roch Catholic High School, and later, earning an education specialist and master’s degree in counseling so she could continue her work as both a teacher and counselor at Christian Brothers College High School in St. Louis. LaVerne was loved and respected by her colleagues and students, not only for her skill and dedication but also for her patience and sincerity.

After leaving the convent, LaVerne met James (Jim) Russomanno at a dance. LaVerne appreciated Jim’s playfulness and wit, and Jim quickly realized LaVerne was the best of the best.  They married and settled in St. Louis, where they raised their son, Anthony. LaVerne was a devoted mother to Anthony and David, Jim’s son from his first marriage, as well as a devoted beagle-mom to the three beagles she and Jim raised together.  After Jim’s death, LaVerne again demonstrated her selflessness by uprooting her life in St. Louis to move to Madison, Wisconsin, where she helped Anthony and his wife, Sarah, take care of their two children, Leo and Franklin. Despite moving several hours away, LaVerne continued to nurture the life-long friendships she’d made in St. Louis, communicating with her friends regularly on the phone, through text messages and with cards and gifts.  She never missed the chance to celebrate a loved one’s birthday, anniversary or any other special occasion.  

In addition to David (Theresa) Russomanno, Sarah, Leo, and Franklin Russomanno, LaVerne is survived by many family and friends who held her dear, including her grandson Evan; cousin Don Cramer; sister-in-law Christine (Ronald) Wenberg and her spouse and family.  She was preceded in death by her parents, sister, husband, and son, Anthony.
A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on February 14, 2026, at Ryan Funeral Home, 2418 N Sherman Ave, Madison, Wisconsin.

To view her obituary or leave a memory, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

2418 N. Sherman Avenue

608-249-8257

Events

14
Celebration of Life
Sat Feb 14, 2026 @ 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM CDT
Ryan Funeral Home • 2418 N Sherman Ave, Madison, WI 53704
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MO
Madeline Oleson
Coworker •
I only knew LaVerne for a short time while she volunteered in my elementary school library. It was always such a pleasure to have her help and to chat while she was shelving books. My thoughts are with her family.
T
Torie
Friend •
I have had the privilege and honor of knowing LaVerne for the last 10 years being her mail carrier. Laverne was the most amazing wonderful, caring, and friendly lady I have ever known, she reminded me so much of my grandma and we have really clicked over the years. We have laughed together, cried together, exchanged gifts, and told stories of ALL kinds.. I am sad I’m just now finding out about this from of course a piece of telling mail.. she will be IMMENSELY missed by me and so many others. I hope she’s at peace and is with her son again.. rest in the best of peace LaVerne. - Torie, your mail lady.
JC
Jo Ann Coyle
Friend •
Celebrating LaVerne: Friend, Listener, and Gentle Spirit Insert photo here – for example, LaVerne feeding Carolyn, the baby Quarter Horse LaVerne was the kindest person I knew — a good listener and the very best friend, always easy to talk to and ready with a caring heart. She came to our ranch soon after I moved to Connersville and instantly fell in love with the baby horses. The picture of her feeding grain to Carolyn perfectly captures her gentle spirit. I will never forget walking in the ice-covered creek with our St. Louis friends, laughing and making memories I will treasure forever. LaVerne remembered every special occasion and recognized life’s struggles, sending the most beautiful greeting cards at just the right time. When I did repairs and updates to her home, she encouraged me in a way I will never forget. She told me I had many talents and could succeed at whatever I chose to pursue. I believed her — because her words came straight from her heart and soul. Her passing has broken my heart, but I will always hold these memories close. Thank you for the love you gave so freely.
JE
Joyce Engle
Classmate •
Sending prayers and love to LaVerne’s family. I’m an SSND classmate. Laverne ‘s memory….60 years ago…..brings only happiness to me. Jesus’ peace to each of you.
A
Audra
Friend •
LaVerne was our dear neighbor we met while living on Rusk St. She was always full of positivity and smiles and always asked how we were, even while going through such a rough time herself. I will forever cherish the warmth, positivity, and kindness my family received from LaVerne.
A
Audra
Friend •
From Audra: LaVerne was our dear neighbor we met while living on Rusk St. She was always full of positivity and smiles and always asked how we were, even while going through such a rough time herself. I will forever cherish the warmth, positivity, and kindness my family received from LaVerne.

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