LaVerne Bilich

LaVerne "Meish" Joseph Bilich, 103, of Benld, Illinois, died at Staunton Health and Rehab Center on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 8:32 am. He was born March 30, 1923, in Sawyerville, IL to Peter Bilich & Anna Dragovich Bilich.  

He was retired after he had worked for Allis Chalmers for over 30 years. LaVerne was a veteran of the US Navy after having served during WWII. He was a member of the VFW of Mt. Olive, IL, CFU Lodge 217 of Benld, IL, and OWLS of Benld, IL.  

He is survived by his niece, Linda (Daniel) Lusicic of Granite City, IL, nephew, John (Sheila) Bilich Jr. of Granite City, IL, great nieces and great nephews, Mark Bilich, Justin Bilich, Erika Bilich, Danielle Moussette, Daniel "D.J." Lusicic, Jr. and John Lusicic.

LaVerne was preceded in death by his parents and brother, John Bilich Sr.  Friends may call on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at Kravanya Funeral Home in Benld from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm.  

Funeral services are Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 12:00 pm at Kravanya Funeral Home in Benld. Burial will be at Benld Cemetery, Benld, Illinois. Memorials are suggested to Croatian Junior Tamburitzans or Plavi Tamburitzans.  

Anyone wishing to send an online condolence may do so at www.kravanyafuneral.com. Kravanya Funeral Home, Benld, Illinois is in charge of the arrangements.