LaVerl Harry Wilhelm

LaVerl Harry Wilhelm, 83, passed away, Monday, October 6, 2025. LaVerl was born March 26, 1942 in St. Johns, Arizona, the son of Bateman Harry Wilhelm and Ora Lavelle Heap. He grew up in St. Johns working on his parent’s cattle ranch. He loved school, playing football and singing in the choir.

LaVerl served a mission for his church in Brazil. He earned several degrees from Arizona State University including a B.A. in English Education with a minor in chemistry and his M.Ed. in counseling. He earned his Ph.D. in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in counseling from Brigham Young University. He was never happier than when he was studying or teaching.

He loved his family dearly and considered his children one of his greatest blessings. Ranching, farming and hard work were not only his lifestyle but also his passion. He served his community with dedication as a member of the school board, a leader in his church and a devoted supporter of the Boy Scouts.

LaVerl was preceded in death by his parents, Ora and Harry Wilhelm, sister, Beverly W. Harris, brother, Ronald Wilhelm, his first wife, Linda Carol Gore and his two sons, Craig Aaron Wilhelm and Todd Bateman Wilhelm.

He is survived by his brothers, Mervin Wilhelm, Darwin Wilhelm, Robert Wilhelm, Joellen Wilhelm, Marcus and Kathy Tsosie Begay and his children, Sonia W. Carrol, Vaughn LaVerl Wilhelm, Kurt Nixon Wilhelm, Shanie W. Janes, Kathi W. Hausmann, Diane W. Ritman and Mark Thomas Wilhelm

Funeral services will be held Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, St. Johns Stake Center, with visitation one hour prior. Interment will follow the services at the St. Johns Westside Cemetery.