Funeral Service for LaVern "Duke" Lehrke, 93, of Sisseton, SD will be held on Friday, October 25, 2019 at 3:00 P.M. with visitation from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. at Emanuel Lutheran Church, Sisseton, SD with Rev. James Wilshusen officiating. Organist will be Clarice Arbach and soloist will be Dean Lehrke. Pallbearers will be Travis Fisher, Justin Fisher, Brandon Fisher, Stanley Hippen, Dale Carlson, and Pete Schmid. Honorary Pallbearers will be all of Duke's friends. Interment will be in the Sisseton Cemetery, Sisseton, SD. LaVern passed away on Tuesday, October 22, 2019 at Coteau Des Prairies Hospital in Sisseton, SD. The Cahill Funeral Chapel, Sisseton, SD is in charge of funeral arrangements.

LaVern "Duke" Lehrke was born November 17, 1925 to Fred and Sophia (Schaunaman) Lehrke. In 1943 Duke arrived in Sisseton and spent the next 40 years working in a variety of jobs/businesses to make a living for himself and his family. On July 12, 1946 Duke asked Dolores (Bartz) for her hand in marriage and they celebrated over 73 years of marriage. To this marriage, they had one child, Lynneta who is married to Dennis Fisher. Duke and Dolores have three grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

In 1947, Brooks Motor hired Duke on as a mechanic and later he went to work for Ivan Green's Ford Tractor Company. On January 1, 1949, Duke and Dolores bought Oscar Olson's tavern which they owned until they sold it in 1972. While they were running the tavern, Duke also started a mail carrier position with the United States Postal Service where he worked until he retired in 1987. Over the years the Lehrke's purchased the King Koin Launderette, two apartment houses, a hotel, and were part owners in the local Bowling Alley. Duke started the Lehrke band in the early 40's and he continued to play the accordion with the band for many years. The fire department was also an important part of Duke's life; as he was the #1 driver for years.

Duke spent many hours working, but he also took time to enjoy life. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, dancing, bowling, golfing, summer deck nights, and fishing at the river where he and Dolores competed to see who could catch the most fish, though Dolores always out fished him.

LaVern "Duke" Lehrke, passed away peacefully after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer on Tuesday October 22 ^nd , 2019 at Coteau Des Prairies hospital in Sisseton, SD surrounded by his family and Pastor.

LaVern is survived by his wife Dolores; daughter Lynneta and her husband Dennis of Sisseton, SD; three grandsons, Travis (Linda) Fisher of Polson, MT, Justin (Shannon) Fisher of Sisseton, SD, Brandon (Jennifer) Fisher of Sisseton, SD, six great grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

LaVern is preceded in death by his parents.