Lavern Neil Preston of Albany, Missouri passed away June 6, 2012 at Heartland Regional Medical Center after a long battle with cancer. Lavern was born in Albany, Missouri on December 13, 1954 to parents Lawrence Neil Preston (deceased) and Artist Hardin (deceased). Lavern graduated from Albany High School in 1972, before graduating from Chillicothe Vocational Technical College in 1974 with a degree in Drafting. Lavern served as a volunteer fireman for the City of Albany, as well as coaching his son's baseball and basketball teams. Lavern also served as a Cub Scout leader, Cub Master, Boy Scout Leader and a member of the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. Lavern was also a member of the Albany Baptist Church. Lavern is survived by his wife of 38 years Connie (Stooksbury) Preston of Albany, MO, two sons Rusty (Breanne) Preston of St Joseph, MO, Steve (Wendy) Preston of Albany, MO, two granddaughters Tehren Preston of St Joseph, MO , Kylee Preston of Albany, MO, Sister Patricia (Tim) Wiederholt of Guilford, MO, Brother Lyle (Kathy) Preston of St Joseph, MO, Half-sisters Jerri Ann Jones of Grant City, MO, Teri Nolan, Cindy (Tom) Lowery of St Joseph, MO, Step-sister Grace Marrow of Sheriden, MO, Half-brother Jimmy Hardin of Albany, MO, Step-brother Billy Hulet of Bethany, MO, Step-father Jerry Hardin of Albany, MO, Step-mother Pauline Preston of Bethany, MO, many nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Lavern was preceded in death by half-brothers Mike Preston and Allen Hardin. Lavern's joys in life included spending time with his granddaughters, hunting, fishing and camping with family and friends. Lavern loved his family and friends, while living his entire life for them.