Verna Hunzie Combs Povsche, 96, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Feb. 8, at Hospice of Laramie, surrounded by loved ones. She was born on March 17, 1928, in Frontier, to John and Mary (Dubinksy) Hunzie.
Verna spent the majority of her life in Kemmerer, where she created a lifetime of cherished memories and friendships. In retirement, she and her husband, Paul, embraced their shared passion for travel, spending winters in Lake Havasu, Arizona, and exploring destinations like Alaska, California, and even took a scenic train ride to Niagara Falls.
Verna found joy in fishing and mushroom hunting, but her true gift lay in her remarkable ability to form deep and lasting connections. Verna spent the past six years in Laramie enjoying quality time with family and, as a resident of Spring Wind Assisted Living, made even more meaningful friendships with staff and residents alike.
A devoted and faithful member of the Lutheran Church, Verna lived her life as a believer, follower, and servant of God. Her faith brought her great comfort, and she was ready to be with Jesus. As she once said, “Raising my kids was the greatest moment of my life. I bless all of them every day. God has been good.”
Verna was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary Hunzie (Dubinsky); her brothers, John (Fern), Harry (Patty) and Chuck (Eva); her son, James Combs, and daughter-in-law, Julie Combs; her first husband, R.D. Combs; and second husband, Paul Povsche.
She is survived by her children, Bob (Nancy) Combs of Kemmerer; and Dianne (late Charles) Maffei of Laramie; along with nine grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Verna’s warmth, kindness and unwavering faith touched the lives of everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A celebration of Verna’s life was held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Kemmerer on Saturday, Feb. 22. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her honor to Hospice of Laramie or St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.
