Robert G. Lavery

Robert G. Lavery 79, of Elkhart passed away March 17, 2008 at his home.

He was born May 16, 1928 in Elkhart to William J. and Wilma M. (Lintz) Lavery and married Patricia Crussemeyer Longacre on August 10, 1952. She survives with a son, Kenneth (Gail) Lavery of High Pointe, NC, a daughter, Mary Lavery of South Bend, a brother, Richard (Doris) Lavery of Elkhart and a sister, Helen Doncilovic of Elkhart. A sister Mary Katherine Lavery preceded in death.

Mr. Lavery retired in 1988 from LaPorte Community Schools after 26 years. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952-55 and played in the 4th Army Band. He began his teaching career as orchestra director in 1955, and worked with the 8th grade band and orchestra at North Side Jr. High in Elkhart for 5 years. He was also director of St. John's Episcopal and Good Shepherd U.M. church choirs. He received the coveted National School Orchestra Award for excellence in string teaching in 1967. He played violin and viola with many orchestras in the area. He was founder of the LaPorte Chamber Orchestra in 1970. After retirement, he played in Clearwater, FL Symphony, Clearwater Band, Tampa Bay Symphony Chamber Players and Pinellas, FL Chamber Orchestra. He also played in the Rochelle, IL, Elkhart, and LaPorte city bands. He most recently played in the Elkhart Symphony and New Horizons Band, in Elkhart.

Friends may call from 2-4 & 6-8 pm Friday and one hour prior to the 2:00 pm Saturday service at Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home, Elkhart. Reverend Lewis J. Clifton will officiate. Cremation will follow with burial at Rice Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to the New Horizons Band, Elkhart.