LaVonne Kenyon

LaVonne (Vonnie) Gail Kenyon, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, passed away on June 30, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at her home with compassionate care from Red River Valley Hospice. (HIA Hospice)

Born on July 23, 1943, to Heinrich (Henry) and Thelma (Leeper) Splittgerber in Fergus Falls, MN. Vonnie spent her childhood years growing up on a dairy farm in Friberg Township in Erhard, MN. She attended District #187 Country School and Pelican Rapids High School.

On May 28, 1960, she married the love of her life, Mark. They built a beautiful family, welcoming six children into their lives. Living briefly in Minneapolis, they returned to the Erhard area for a number of years and eventually, spending the last 35 in the Detroit Lakes area.

Vonnie had a genuine interest in children with special needs, having worked over 30 years as a special education paraprofessional. She cherished the time spent with Mark on their many road trips, whether for a weekend getaway or week-long adventure exploring the wilderness’ beauty. She enjoyed getting in the boat to go fishing with Mark, even though she never fished, as she loved to ride with while reading, relaxing, and enjoying the sun. Amidst the many twists and turns, Vonnie and Mark created memories together for almost 65 years.

She was an avid gardener in her day, enjoying making jelly, canning, cooking, and baking. Vonnie especially had a soft spot for her grand and great grandchildren, enjoying any time spent with them. Vonnie was baptized as one of Jehovah’s witnesses on October 11, 1969. She maintained her faith in Jehovah and the many promises the Bible holds.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Mark; parents; Henry and Thelma Splittberger; two brothers; Dennis and Fred Splittberger; infant son; Craig Steven; son; Patrick Neil; grandson; Bennett Nelson.

She is survived by her children: David, Cheryl (Parrish) Nelson, Clint (Mari), Matthew; her grandchildren; Jasmine, Brady, Brittney, Erik, Daniel, Tania, Aliza, and Daniel A; great grandchildren; Makala, Donald, Elsa, Alysa, Owen, Sophia, Red, Cole, Kearny, Hudson, and Nekoda.

Her spirit will remain in our hearts forever.