Longtime Oostburg Resident Lyle 'Duff' VerVelde Dies at 90

VerVelde was a longtime farm implement and construction salesman and community leader.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Lyle 'Duff' VerVelde, a 90-year-old resident of Oostburg, Wisconsin, passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at A Cedar Grove Senior Living facility. VerVelde had a long, successful 64-year career in farm implement and construction sales before retiring in 2019. He was also heavily involved in his local community, serving as a Sunday School Superintendent, Jaycee's member, and school board member over the years.

Why it matters

VerVelde's passing marks the end of an era for Oostburg, as he was a pillar of the community for decades. His commitment to local organizations and youth activities made him a beloved figure, and his death will be felt by many in the small Wisconsin town.

The details

VerVelde was born in Sheboygan in 1935 and graduated from Oostburg High School in 1953. He married Ann Hopeman in 1954, and they were married for 69 years until her passing in 2023. In addition to his sales career, VerVelde was involved in many community groups, including serving as a Sunday School Superintendent, Jaycee's member, and school board member. He also enjoyed hobbies like baseball, basketball, golfing, and snowmobiling.

  • VerVelde passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
  • A celebration of VerVelde's life will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

Lyle 'Duff' VerVelde

A 90-year-old resident of Oostburg, Wisconsin who had a long career in farm implement and construction sales and was heavily involved in the local community.

Ann Hopeman

VerVelde's wife of 69 years, who passed away in 2023.

Pastor Brian Taylor

The pastor who will officiate VerVelde's celebration of life service.

Oostburg School Endowment Fund

A fund that VerVelde's family has requested memorial donations be made to.

Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice

An organization that VerVelde's family has requested memorial donations be made to.

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What’s next

VerVelde will be laid to rest privately with family at Hingham Cemetery beside his wife Ann.

The takeaway

VerVelde's long life and deep community involvement made him a beloved figure in Oostburg, and his passing marks the end of an era for the small Wisconsin town.