Laurie Ann Hessel

It is with heavy hearts that we announce Laurie Ann Hessel (Johnson), 67, of Fort Collins, Colorado, passed away Tuesday, January 28th, 2025. Born in Palos Park, Illinois, she was the daughter of the late Richard and Francis (Bibb) Johnson. Laurie graduated Carl Sandburg High School in 1975 and Colorado State University in 1979. She received a master’s degree in social work from the University of Illinois in 1983.

Laurie was a skilled and compassionate psychotherapist for over 40 years, helping thousands of people through her work with various schools, employee assistance programs (EAPs), and mental health organizations. Most recently, she was employed at the Heart Centered Counseling for over 6 years. Her longest tenure was with the EAP for the United States Postal Service (Magellan Health Services) for over 15 years.

Surviving her are her husband of 32 years, Del Hessel, brother Gregory Johnson, sisters, Bonnie Mazzei (Johnson) and Sherrie Johnson, and beloved fur babies, Sugar and Leo.

Laurie was a beloved wife, a treasured sister, devoted friend to many, and a cherished Aunt and Great Aunt. She was an avid reader, passionate animal lover and protector, and had a strong love and appreciation for the outdoors. Laurie often started each day, sitting on her deck, soaking in either the warmth or chill of nature. Laurie was also a generous gift giver – she delighted in finding the perfect, often silly, gifts. She had a sharp wit, a contagious smile, and was easy to laugh. Laurie was a fabulous listener, and she always seemed to say exactly what you needed to hear. Her loving words of wisdom will be dearly missed by all her friends and family who have been blessed with her support over the years.

A Celebration of Life open house will be held from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm on Saturday, February 8th, 2025, at Allnutt Drake Chapel in Fort Collins.

Laurie was a lifelong supporter of animal charities. Memorial contributions can be made to the following or an animal charity of your choice:

Hearts and Horses

Therapeutic Riding Center www.heartsandhorses.org

970-663-4200

Animal Friends Alliance

Shelter www.savinganimalstoday.org

970-484-8516