Neil Taverna

Neil Taverna was born on September 10, 1935, in New Rockford, ND to Jacob and Delma Taverna. He was baptized and later confirmed at the First Congregational Church. He grew up in New Rockford where he attended school, graduating from New Rockford High School in 1954. He attended North Dakota State University earning a Master’s degree in Education.

Neil married his high school sweetheart, June Moe, on June 5, 1954. They made their home in Fargo, Casselton and Thief River Falls, MN before moving to LaMoure in 1975. Together, they raised four children: Jake, Scott, Tami and Jon. June passed in 1993.

Neil’s dedication to education as an instructor and principal made a lasting impact on all who knew him. During the summers, he worked as a crop adjustor and a field supervisor for Blakely Insurance and Continental Insurance. He served as a treasurer at the Zoar Lutheran Church and was a member of the LaMoure Lions and Memorial Park Country Club. In his free time, Neil was passionate about hunting especially with his boys, golfing, yard care, playing pinochle with former students and playing chess with his wife and family.

In 1999, he married Karen Mart-Taverna, with whom he enjoyed a fulfilling retirement in Fargo. Neil was graciously blessed with home ministry by Pastor Chris and Pastor Dan of Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church.

Neil passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 12 at the age 90. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and the many lives he touched throughout his career.

Neil was preceded in death by his first wife June, his parents, Jacob and Delma, and his two sisters, Diane Ziegler and Donna Pfeiffer. He is survived by his wife Karen Mart-Taverna, his children Jake Taverna (Connie), Butte, MT, Scott Taverna (Nan), New Rockford, ND, Tami Young (Curt),Berlin, ND and Jon Taverna (Nancy),Williston, ND. Stepchildren, Tisha Paplow (Lee), Dundee, MN, Scott Mart (Kari), LaMoure, ND as well as his thirteen grandchildren, Jordan, Heather, Todd, Cole, Jill, Russ, Jennifer, James, Alan, Ana, Tate, Jace, Ivy and eleven great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 11:00 am at the Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, Fargo with a visitation one hour prior.

A private family burial will be held at Berlin Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Neil’s honor to LaMoure Dollars for Scholars, Berlin Cemetery, Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, Fargo, or a charity of your choice. Arrangements made by Boulger Funeral Home, Fargo.