(nee Nelson)
Age 47
Of Woodbury
Passed away unexpectedly on 7/13/11. Lori had a zest for life. She was a gardener, chef, angler, outdoorswoman, biker chic, joker, carpenter, mechanic, planner, and so much more. And, of course, Lori was a mother, daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, friend, and mentor. During her college days, she had a midnight shift job at the University of Minnesota clinics. Late one night she called her dad at home and said that her car just quit on 35W. But, she said that because the engine had cut out quickly and not chugged to a stop, that the problem was most likely electrical and not fuel. So, she said she would first take a look at it herself. She then called back about 10 minutes later, said that the wire to the distributor coil had broken off, but that she had fixed it. Lori told it like it was but also had a true talent for guiding others in the kindest way.
Lori was a frugal person who looked for the best deals and coupons. She used all of her resources to the fullest.
Lori always put her family first. She planned the best get-togethers, whether it was Devin or Chelsie’s birthday, a family Thanksgiving, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, or a simple gathering of friends or family. Her home was always open and welcoming. Lori had a unique talent for gift-giving. She knew each of us in ways we probably don’t know ourselves.
Lori was always there for others and especially the people she loved. Many of us can remember a time in our lives when we needed extra love and support and Lori was there for us. She was patient, and so generous with her compassion and love.
Lori's compassion for others first came to light at about 10 years old. One night about 11 pm, the mother of her best childhood friend was killed in a car accident. This mother had 4 children at home alone under the care of an oldest brother. As neighbors and family friends, Lori's parents got the call first. They woke Lori up to tell her of the tragedy. Lori insisted that she be the one to wake up her little friend and explain that her Mom had passed. Lori was very gentle and comforting to her friend and that empathy for others grew as Lori grew. Not only was Lori compassionate, she was also witty, bubbly and always had a smile for you. Although we are comforted to know Lori is peaceful and joyful with our Lord, it is the one time we all wish she would have been late.
Lori is survived by children, Devin & Chelsie; mother, Kathy Nelson; father, Don Nelson (Bonnie); sister, Shelley (Jeff) Rose; brothers, Bruce & Steve Nelson; step-daughter, Brooke; many other loving relatives and friends. Clinic manager for 20 years at Broadway Family Medicine. She was passionate about her kids, her work, and fishing. Lori was a very caring, giving person whose life ended too soon. Rest easy, our friend.
Visitation Mon., 7/18 from 5-8 PM at Wulff Woodbury Funeral Home, 2195 Woodlane Dr. Funeral Mass Tue., 7/19 at 3 PM at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 920 Holley Ave., St. Paul Park, with add'l visitation 1 hr. prior to Mass. Interment Sunset Cemetery, Mpls.
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