Luverne Wanous, 89, Owatonna
Luverne Leroy Wanous, 89 of Owatonna, passed away on Aug. 2, 2025, at Ecumen Countryside, with his family by his side.
Luverne was born in Owatonna to Harold and Mildred (Racek) Wanous. He grew up near Pratt and attended country school until 8th grade, then attended Owatonna High School and was a member of the 1954 class. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1958 and served until 1960.
Luverne and Marilyn were married on Dec. 26, 1959, while on leave from the Army. Upon returning from Germany, Luverne moved home to the farm and was the fourth generation to live on the farm.
At 5 years old his dad taught him how to play the accordion. His first job was to perform three songs for the Steele County Cattleman's Association, and he received 50 cents for his performance. He then got interested in the concertina and learned on his own and never knew how to ready music, it's all by ear. His uncle Chic Racek then invited him to play at the Monterey Ball room with his band and the rest is history.
In 1960, he started Luverne's Concertina Band, performing for over 60 years at so many weddings, anniversaries, parades and so many other events. From his 7-piece band to playing solo his music was enjoyed by so many and will leave a legacy of entertaining everyone for generations. Luverne was proud to have played at the Steele County Free Fair for 62 years. He made his own "Old McDonald had a Farm" version of the song and debut it at the KRFO Tent on the air and they rest is history! He also played at the Beer Gardens and was seen on his Music Mobile. Luverne was honored to have a Pilsner beer named after him at the Mineral Springs Brewery, be a member of the Owatonna Elks, Eagles, and be inducted into the World Concertina Congress Hall of Fame.
Luverne and Marilyn traveled to McAllen, Texas every winter for 27 years. They made many special friends in Texas and enjoyed all the patio parties. He loved to farm, playing the concertina, fish, hunt and spending time with family and friends.
Luverne is survived by his daughters, Deb (Ray) Hanks of Waseca, Jane (Joe) Spatenka, of Owatonna, MaryAnn Wanous of Owatonna, Nancy (Bryan) Vroman of Owatonna; grandchildren, Steven (Jessica) Hanks, Andrew (Chelsea) Hanks, Kyle (LeAnn) Hanks, Trent (Emily) Spatenka, Vanessa (Justin) Johnson, and Tyler Vroman; six great-grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter arriving in late August; siblings, Francis (Sharon) Wanous, Shirley (Tom) Woodfill, and Ricky Wanous; special friend Donna Kubista, and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Marilyn Wanous, parents, and sister, Norma Ackerman.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025, from 3-8 p.m. at Michaelson Funeral Home in Owatonna. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Michaelson Funeral Home, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Owatonna.
Memorials are preferred to the Special Olympics, or to the donor's choice. In memory of Luverne please consider giving blood to help Leukemia patients.