Loralee (Lalee) Van Houten Kerr was born on July 14, 1939 to Robert and Deloris Van Houten in Grand Island, Nebraska. Lalee grew up in Grand Junction and was in the first graduating class of the newly established 5th street location of Grand Junction High School in 1956. She attended Mesa Junior College and matriculated with a biology degree from Western State College in 1961.
Life’s work for Lalee included the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs and the University of Minnesota Library where she worked as librarian for many years. Upon retirement, she moved back to her home town of Grand Junction. Even though she was retired from salaried work - her work in philanthropy had just begun. She supported the Art Center, Grand Junction Symphony Orchestra, Community Concerts of the Grand Valley, Colorado Archeological Association, American Association of University Women, Colorado Mesa University Music Department, Crossroads United Methodist Church, United Methodist Committee on Relief, and countless animal advocacy organizations.
We will miss Lalee’s clear, soprano voice in choir and praise band, great discussions on her favorite books, her passion for peace and justice in the world and that celebratory spirit that lit up every room she entered.
Lalee died of natural causes on May 8, 2024 at St. Mary’s Hospital. She is survived by her son Chris, her dear friend Keith, her beloved dog Sugar, River City Singles, her church family, and countless friends. Services will be held at Crossroads United Methodist Church on a date to be determined.
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