Lavern Ray Holmlund, age 82, passed away peacefully at home on December 2, 2025 at 8:30 AM.

Lavern was born at home on July 25, 1943, and grew up in Argyle, Minnesota. In 1961, he proudly enlisted in the United States Navy where he played in the Navy band while stationed at St. John’s, Newfoundland. After completing his service, he attended North Dakota State University and earned his Pharmacy degree in 1969.

On July 5, 1969, Lavern married Roberta “Robin” Rindt. Together, they built a family and a life rooted in hard work, service, and devotion to family.

His career as a pharmacist spanned 50 years. He began in Chicago before moving to Casselton, North Dakota and later to Larimore, North Dakota, where he owned and operated North Valley Drug until 1988. Lavern then moved his family to Decatur, Illinois, where he continued his work with Walgreens Pharmacy and several other companies until his retirement.

Lavern is survived by his wife of 56 years, Robin; his children Jennifer (James “Mike”) Cooper, John (Kirsten) Holmlund, and David Holmlund; his sister Sandra (Doug) Ackerman; and a multitude of extended family. He was a proud grandfather to Gwen (Krissy) Holmlund, Sara (CJ) Holmlund, Eric Holmlund, and Rayna Holmlund, and a great-grandfather to Grayson, Kairi, and Jace.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Selpha “Sally” Holmlund; his brothers Duane Holmlund and Richard “Dick” Kleinvachter, along with their spouses Nancy Holmlund and Elizabeth “Liz” Kleinvachter; and his son Paul Holmlund.

Lavern’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Elera Caring Hospice for their exceptional compassion, care, and support – especially Kailey, Desiree, Alice, Nicole, and Chelsea.

No immediate visitation or service will be held. A celebration of life\memorial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or to the North Dakota State University Bands\Marching Band honoring Lavern’s service and his lifelong love of music.