Laverne Mae Zantello

Laverne Mae Zantello was born March 8, 1939, in Paw Paw, Michigan to Peter and Wanda Zantello, and passed away on May 18, 2026, in Fort Myers, Florida. She spent her childhood in Michigan before venturing to Las Vegas, where she would meet her former husband Mahlon Brown and become the mother of three children; Bert Mahlon Brown IV (Deanna), Bryce Brown, and Paige Nelson (Korey). She was also a beloved grandmother to six grandchildren; Jessica Kuldanek, Kincaid Nelson, Halle Brown, Hanna Brown, Rain Nelson, and Amelie Rye Nelson.

Laverne moved a few more times before settling in Naples, Florida to be closer to family, where she devoted her time to her career and raising her youngest daughter. Laverne was a strong-spirited woman who loved to laugh and spend time with family and friends. She had a passion for hunting for treasures and antiques, and a deeply creative mind that gave her an appreciation for different forms of art. She had so many interest but at the end of the day she loved listening to Willie Nelson or watching a show on PBS while enjoying a glass of white wine.

Laverne will join her father Pete; mother, Wanda, and stepfather, Roger Camfield; along with her brothers, Marlin and Kenneth Zantello in heaven, while reuniting with her beloved and trusted furry road trip companion, Claudius.

We will miss her dearly and will find you again, sweet Nona. Ciao for now.

A Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Adams Funeral Home, 502 W. Michigan Avenue, Paw Paw at 11:00 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the SPCA of Southwest Michigan or the Conservancy of Southwest Florida.