LaVerne Edward Jantz

LaVerne Edward Jantz ( July 13, 1935- May 28, 2026 )

LaVerne Edward Jantz was born on July 13, 1935, in Drake, Saskatchewan to Peter C. Jantz and Annie Jantz (Schroeder). He was raised on the family farm alongside his siblings, Vera and Leslie, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep Christian faith that would guide him throughout his life.

A lifelong learner, LaVerne completed his high school education in his early twenties and cultivated a passion for learning that led him to earn degrees in Arts and Science, Psychology, and Theology. His education prepared him for a life of ministry while continuing to contribute to the family farm. He served as pastor of Philadelphia MB Church in Watrous and frequently ministered in churches throughout the Drake area. Serving others through pastoral ministry became his life's calling and greatest passion.

LaVerne was deeply committed to Christian camping ministry, dedicating countless years of service both provincially and internationally. His involvement began at Arlington Beach Camp and Ranger Lake Bible Camp and extended to ministry work in Ukraine. He ultimately fulfilled a long-held vision as a founding organizer and developer of Dallas Valley Ranch Camp near Lumsden, where he remained actively involved in purposeful mission work well into his eighties.

On June 17, 1967, LaVerne married Joyce Gullacher in Imperial, Saskatchewan. Together they built a loving family. Their son, David, joined the family as a newborn on August 18, 1972, and their daughter, Charlene, was born on June 11, 1976. LaVerne devoted himself to caring for and providing for his young family while faithfully supporting Joyce throughout her courageous journey with multiple sclerosis until her passing in 1999.

On October 7, 2006, LaVerne married Lorna Stenson. Together they shared nearly twenty years of marriage, ministry, adventure, and companionship. United in their commitment to Christian service, they continued their involvement with Dallas Valley Ranch Camp and the Saskatchewan Camping Association. They enjoyed tending their beautiful yard, travelling to visit family, and sharing a love of music.

LaVerne was also known for his gift of photography. He found great joy in capturing family gatherings, special moments, and the beautiful landscapes he encountered throughout his travels, creating a treasured visual record of the people and places he loved.

In August 2025, as he faithfully navigated the challenges of dementia, LaVerne and Lorna moved to Kindersley, Saskatchewan. LaVerne became a resident of Heritage Manor, where he lived until his passing on May 28, 2026. LaVerne will be remembered for his unwavering faith, servant's heart, dedication to ministry, love for family, and lifelong commitment to helping others encounter God's love. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched as a pastor, mentor, camp leader, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend.

LaVerne was predeceased by his parents and both siblings, his loving wife Joyce of over 30 years and his son David and other extended family of the Jantz and Gullacher families. Left to mourn his passing are his wife Lorna Stenson Jantz, his daughter Charlene and his Grandchildren Kyle and Kierra Fehr and Granddaughter Teesha Jantz Toman as well as Great Grandchildren Harlan, Leah, Abel, Ellie and by Lorna’s children Troy ( Louanne ) Stenson, Tammy ( Brett) Diemert, Todd ( Penny) Stenson , Grandchildren Braxton, Samara ( Mike) Sawyer (Kelsey), Sydney ( Bobby), Shaunesy (Derek) Walde, Great Grandchildren Layla, Maverick, Annie and Indie Fries and Wells Walde.

A Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at the Kindersley Alliance Church at 2:00 p.m.

In memory of LaVerne, donations can be made to Dallas Valley Ranch Camp, LaVerne Jantz Memorial Fund, via the following link

https://dallasvalley.campbraingiving.com/

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