LaVerne M. Luikart, 88, of Kings Chapel Road, New Castle, passed away the morning of November 15, 2014 at Jameson Hospital. Born January 16, 1926 in New Castle, she was a daughter of William J. and Myrtle Croushore Merriman. On January 2, 1948 she married Walter W. Luikart, enjoying 67 wonderful years together. LaVerne was a graduate of Jameson Memorial Hospital School of Nursing and was an honorary member of the Jameson-Shenango Alumni Association. She was a registered nurse in the Jameson Hospital operating room for 23 years, and was a volunteer with the American Red Cross. LaVerne had a servant's heart and enjoyed visiting those in need. Among her many interests were cooking, traveling and sailing. She also enjoyed outings to casino's. A member of Shenango Presbyterian Church, she attended the Willing Workers Sunday school class and assisted with the church newsletter. She was the first female deacon to serve in the church. She also enjoyed attending Primetimers. Her family would like to thank the kind people from UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, Jameson Hospital, and Jameson Hospice for the excellent care given to LaVerne. In addition to her husband Walter, she is survived by her three children; a daughter, Tracey K. Luikart of Brownsville, TX; and two sons, Mark J. Luikart and Scott W. Luikart, both of New Castle; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three sisters, Sally Hnat, Ruth Stoner, and Wilda McClain; and one brother, William J. Merriman. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 18, 2014, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 2429 Wilmington Road, New Castle. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, November 19, 2014, at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Amy Na officiating. Burial will be in Castle View Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to Shenango Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund, 3144 Wilmington Road, New Castle, PA 16105.