John L. Laverdure

John was born in Fort Totten, North Dakota to Ferdinand and Mary Rose Laverdure. His parents and their 12 children moved to Portland, Oregon in 1943. He was boarded at the Chemawa Indian School near Salem, Oregon during his elementary years and graduated from Jefferson High School in 1958. He married Elizabeth Ann Woodruff in 1961. They had five children together and divorced in 1975.

After nearly 20 years of work at Oregon Steel Mills, John went back to school and became the oldest person to complete the Local IBEW apprenticeship program. One of the highlights of his career was wiring the Rose Quarter water fountain. John also co-owned and operated the Perch Tavern in St. Johns during the 1970’s.

John was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His grandchildren called him their greatest fan as he rarely missed a ball game, gymnastics or track meet, family gathering or celebration. He instilled a good work ethic, love of family and friends, and bestowed unconditional love on his children. They loved his crazy wave, his bunch a bunch of love, and his quick-witted humor.

John was a proud member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indian. He enjoyed spending time with his Elder’s group at the Native American Youth Center in Portland. He also served as a volunteer willing to do anything handed his way. He assisted in the formation of the Portland American Indian Elders Association serving as President for a four-year term. He participated in the Bow and Arrow Club and served as a member of the Portland Youth and Elders Council, which aided in the development of the NAYA Family Canoe Journey.

John is survived by four siblings, Marie (Abby) Wilson, Kenny Laverdure, Patricia Barnes, and Charles (Joe) Laverdure; his four children, Thomas (Patti) Laverdure, Mark Laverdure, Mary (Mark) Robison, and Michael (Sharmmon) Laverdure; six grandchildren, Angie Hughes, Amy Sehl, Taylor Robison, Megan Laverdure, Blake Robison, and James Laverdure; and four great-grandchildren, Avery Hughes Davis, Kellen Wiley, Kole Wiley, and Olivia Williams.