LaVerne Bertha Roocks, age 96, of Appleton, passed away on January 20, 2026, at Oakridge Gardens Nursing Center, Menasha. She was born on September 13, 1929, in Clintonville, WI, daughter to the late Arthur H. and Bertha C. (Smith) Mech. She graduated from Clintonville High School in 1947, and attended the Milwaukee Accredited Schools of Beauty Culture, graduating in June 1948. LaVerne worked in the cosmetology field and then worked as an administrative assistant at the Banta Corporation for several years.

LaVerne was united in marriage to James L. Gehrt on December 26, 1953, at St Martin Lutheran Church, Clintonville. They had two beautiful children, Laurie (Lauren) and Rod (Roderick). James was killed in an unfortunate car accident on November 27, 1958. LaVerne was united in marriage to E. Thomas Roocks on March 4, 1972, and gained two more children to their family. They had a wonderful life together doing things they loved. They enjoyed traveling, especially to Florida to enjoy the warm weather and fishing. LaVerne loved baking and Tom would crack fresh nuts for her to use in her recipes. She was very generous and would share her love of food with everyone she knew. Everyone always left with fresh baked cookies, bars, or bread. She had an amazing spirit and a zest for life. She always had a joke to tell, a camera ready to take photos, and a smile on her face. She made friends everywhere she went.

LaVerne is survived by her husband, E. Thomas Roocks, her children Laurie (Harry) Muller, Rod (Wende) Gerht, Ann (William) Joosten, Paul Roocks; three grandchildren: Mike (Meagan Beavers) Gehrt, Matt Gehrt, Eric (Roxy) Joosten, four great grandchildren: Olivia, Sophia, Monte, and Audrey; sisters Lois Borchardt, Sandra Mech, Susan Carlson; sisters-in-law: Sally Roocks, Gretchen (Michael) Mish, and many nieces and nephews.

LaVerne was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband James, brother James (Darlene), sister Jean (Roy) Gruetzmacher; sister-in-law Marilyn (Daniel) Lehrer and brother-in-law David Roocks.

At LaVerne’s request, there will be no immediate services. Her family will celebrate her privately. In LaVerne’s memory, bake a batch of cookies to share with your neighbor!

LaVerne’s family extends its gratitude to the nurses and staff at Oakridge Gardens as well as to Bristol Hospice for the wonderful care and love provided both to LaVerne and to us.