Dr. Robert E. Lavery

Dr. Robert E. Lavery, 78, of Salina, passed away Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009. Dr. Lavery was born Feb. 2, 1931, in Frontenac, the son of Joseph and Anne (Kelly) Lavery.

Dr. Lavery practiced dentistry until his retirement in 1989. He was a decorated Korean War veteran and devoted family man. He supported his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews by attending many special events. He also enjoyed reading and music and was an avid golfer.

He was preceded in death by his son, Timothy Lavery; brothers, Joseph and James Lavery; sister, Margaret Caruso; and granddaughter, Megan Lavery.

Survivors include Carole Lavery; son, Thomas Lavery and wife Kim; three daughters, Kathy Cather and husband Mark, Judy Harris and husband Don, and Mary Laughlin and husband Bruce; a brother, Tom Lavery; two sisters, Rita White and Mary McQuade; and his 12 grandchildren, Jessica, Katie, Bryan, Jane, Anne, Ryan, Jeremy, Natalie, Kevin, Nicole, Joshua and Sophie.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. today at Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. Eighth St., Salina, with a vigil at 6:30 p.m.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4, at St. Mary Queen of the Universe Catholic Church, Salina. Burial will be in Gypsum Hill Cemetery, with military honors provided by McConnell Air Force Base.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Kaye Pogue Hospice Center.