After over seven decades, Ramona (Otterness) Latterell has returned to the familiar surroundings of New London, settling into the GlenOaks Senior Campus alongside her husband, LaVerne. This move places them across the road from Ramona’s childhood home. As they prepare to celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on April 16, 2025, their enduring love story remains a poignant testament to their shared life journey.
Ramona and LaVerne’s history dates back to 1953 when a chance encounter at a roller rink and dance hall near Saulsbury Beach sparked a lifelong romance. LaVerne’s first sighting of Ramona was at a county fair, which led to their first meeting on roller skates. Despite differing memories of their initial meeting, the couple’s bond quickly solidified, leading to LaVerne’s proposal at Lake Ripley, followed by their marriage in 1955 at Trinity Lutheran Church in New London.
Following their nuptials, the couple embarked on a life together that included a stint at Cherry Point Marine Corps station in North Carolina, where they welcomed the first of their children. After LaVerne’s service, they returned to Minnesota, where they became integral members of the Spicer community. LaVerne worked in construction and later operated a repair shop and trucking business, while Ramona focused on raising their family and maintaining their home.
The couple’s life together was marked by their commitment to family and community. Their children recall a household where needs were met with care and attention, and the family enjoyed a warm and nurturing environment. This dedication was celebrated during their 50th wedding anniversary, an event that reunited family and friends from various chapters of their lives.
As Ramona now faces the challenges of dementia, her positive outlook continues to shine through, supported by her family and LaVerne’s enduring love. Their journey together, even amidst the inevitable changes of aging, remains a source of strength and inspiration for those around them.
The Long-Term View
The Latterells’ story offers a heartwarming glimpse into the enduring nature of love and commitment over a lifetime. For communities and families, it highlights the importance of cherishing shared memories and the value of lifelong partnerships in navigating life’s challenges. Their journey underscores the joy found in togetherness and the strength drawn from mutual support, even in the face of health challenges and life’s transitions.
For individuals, the Latterells’ experience serves as a reminder of the significance of nurturing relationships and maintaining a positive outlook through life’s ups and downs. As they celebrate 70 years of marriage, Ramona and LaVerne exemplify the profound impact of love, resilience, and community in creating a fulfilling life journey.