Vita LaVerne Cali

1926 - 2025

Vita LaVerne Cali

January 22, 1926 - June 16, 2025

San Luis Obispo, California - Vita LaVerne Cali, age 99, died peacefully on June 16, 2025. Born in Waukegan, IL, LaVerne's nickname was "Pee Wee" due to her diminutive height. She had childhood friends that she remained close to throughout her long life. As a teenager she worked in a dry cleaner and as a diner waitress where she led a walk-out for better hours and wages.

During WWII LaVerne was a pen pal to Frank Cali, a soldier in the Army Air Force. Theirs was a wartime romance and in 1943 they were married while Frank was serving his country. In 1950, they moved to southern California where they raised three children. LaVerne had a career in the grocery industry and managed a store deli for many years. She was active in bowling leagues and, together with Frank, participated in tournaments around California and in Las Vegas, NV. Upon retiring, they played golf, traveled and relocated to Las Vegas where they made new friends and LaVerne became active in their church's craft group. After Frank died, LaVerne remained in Las Vegas until moving to the central coast of California to be nearer to family.

LaVerne was the last surviving family member of her generation and was predeceased by her husband Frank, her daughter Barbara Perkins and great-grandson Gabriel Perkins. She is survived by her sons, Ronald and his wife Kathy, and Wayne and his wife Mary Jo. She was the devoted grandmother to five grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild as well as a caring aunt to her nieces and nephews.

LaVerne was a lifelong, die-hard, Dodgers Fan. She knew extensive Dodger trivia and followed the team until her final days. Remember her the next time they are playing and, preferably, winning.

The Cali family would like to extend special thanks and gratitude to the staff at San Luis Post Acute Center.