Lori E. Parker Andersen

In the song of life, Lorene Ellen Andersen was surely the composer. A very observant woman who would rather spend her time creating than talking, Lorene preferred to live in a world of harmony where everything around her made sense. In fact, she depended on her sensory world to provide her with concrete data. A free spirit, Lorene believed that actions definitely spoke for themselves. She seemed to know what fit and what didn’t fit in everything she did. Lorene perceived that all of life’s possibilities were open to her, yet she lived with a definite sense of purpose. She was a woman who was always ready to share her creations with those around her.

Lorene was born on October 6, 1955 at SUI- General Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa. Her parents were Leon and Emma Parker. Lorene was raised in Evansdale, Iowa. As a young child, Lorene was optimistic in her outlook. She sought out the possibilities in a given situation and looked for ways to apply her creative energies. Lorene rarely calling attention to herself, but when she did speak out, her message was clearly understood by those around her.

Early on in her family relationships, Lorene showed that she was a tolerant and flexible person, and she got along fairly well with everyone. She was raised with five siblings. She had three older sister's, Loretta, Lonna, and Jean, and two brother's, David and Sonny. She was a calm and playful child who was adaptable to any situation.

Early on in her school years, Lorene showed an interest in learning, especially when it came to subjects in the arts. At times, school learning did not provide Lorene with sufficient challenges, but being an avid reader, she could often be “lost in a book” well above her grade level. Her passion for fine arts was so keen that fellow students, and even her teachers, recognized it. She enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers.

Lorene was exceptionally sympathetic and compassionate when it came to her children. These emotional bonds made her as much playmate as parent. She gave her family unconditional love and kindness, sharing her artistic nature by turning everyday events into creative play. Lorene was blessed with five children: two sons, Justin, Eric; and three daughters, Britney, Misty, and Ashley.

Lorene found ways to enjoy what she did for a living. She worked hard and did her best to succeed every day. Her primary occupation was mother and grandmother. Lorene tended to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done without imposing her will on others.

Lorene enjoyed her leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. Her favorite pursuits were playing with her grandchildren, board games, card games, and shopping. Lorene was content to enjoy her hobbies alone but was also willing to share her interests with others. She was relaxed in her approach to her leisure time because she wanted to savor the present moment.

Because she loved the world around her, Lorene enjoyed traveling and going away on vacations. It was an opportunity for her to kick-back and relax, to visit new places, and experience new things. Lorene put her personal trademark on any leisure planning that she undertook. A favorite vacation included a trip to Washington state.

Lorene was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. One of Lorene’s favorites was Garfield, a cat. They were best friends for three years.

Lorene passed away on May 22, 2010 at Sunrise Hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada. Lorene fought a brave battle against multiple sclerosis. She is survived by her children: Justin, Misty, Britney, Eric and Ashley; sisters and brother, Lonna, Loretta, and David; and father, Leon. Lorene was laid to rest at the Inspiration Columnbarium at Palm Valley View Cemetery.

Lorene was a good woman, a kind woman, and a practical woman, who will for all time be remembered by her family and friends as being warm and deeply caring. She leaves behind a treasury of life-long friendships and wonderful memories. Lorene always had much to give and was able to make those connections in her life where her gifts were appreciated. Lorene was a faithful, practical and loving person. Everyone whose life she touched will always remember Lorene Ellen Andersen.