"To the Family of Lori, My mother, Millie Rioux and family, Bruce, Gerri and Sandee all send our sympathy. Lori always seemed so "young". In fact, we did think she was younger then she really was. We were old neighbors and mom was an old friend. She was just a sweetheart. We got to see her at Jerry Mattson's funeral, another sad event, but we were so glad to see her. Our love to all. July 31, 2012"
In loving memory of
Lori Y. Saxe
April 15, 1929 - July 26, 2012
Lori Saxe, our Beloved Mom, Grandma,Great Grandma, Sister, Friend -- age 83 of Forest Lake, passed away July 26, 2012 at her home surrounded by her loving family.
She is preceded in death by daughter, Robyn Peltier in 1988; parents, Stephen and Bertha Pedley; brothers, Richard Pedley and Jim Pedley.
Lori will be deeply missed by daughter, Julie (Mark) Munkelwitz; sons, John (Beverly), Pete (Julie), and Bruce (Effie); grandchildren, Terra, Bobbie Jo, Amy Jo, Katie, Hollie, Kindie, Kyle, Shawn, Lucas, Stephanie, Jaime, Jodi, and Josh; great grandchildren, Kayla, Kenny, Jackson, Sammy, Anneka, and Keegan; sister, Ginny (Bob) Prince; sister-in-law, Toni Pedley and Joanne Pedley.
Gathering of Family and Friends 4 - 8 PM Monday, July 30th and continues 9-10 AM Tuesday, July 31st at Roberts Family Funeral Home, 555 Centennial Dr. SW, Forest Lake.
Mass of Christian Burial 10:30 AM Tuesday, July 31st at Church of St. Peter, 1250 So. Shore Dr., Forest Lake, MN. Interment Calvary Cemetery, Forest Lake.
The following is the eulogy given by family friend,
Therese Toronto at Lori's Mass:
She's Gone......
That was the tearful call I received from Julie when her Mom passed away. It was a bittersweet feeling of relief, knowing that her suffering was over, only to be replaced in that next split second with the realization that
She is gone. We can shed tears that Lori is no longer with us or we can smile because she has lived. And what a wonderful life she lived.
Her Faith and Family were at the very core of her being. Lori faithfully went to morning mass, attended Perpetual Adoration, donated cakes for funerals and was on the weekly Prayer Chain. She was always praying for someone else's needs...never her own. Lori was always lighting candles in prayer for someone. I think she had a hotline straight to heaven with her prayers, because if she lit a candle for you- her prayers were usually answered. Having known Lori, I now wish I had bought stock in a candle company.
Young or Old- everyone saw the SAME Lori- she did not put on airs. She was a kind woman to everyone and gave of herself unconditionally. She always greeted people with a smile and had a way of making each person feel special. All you have to do is look around today- to see the life-long friendships she made. You can close your eyes and pray that she'll come back
or you can open your eyes and see all she's left. Her Faith, her Family and her Friends. Lori breathed Family. Her daughters: Julie and Robin..... Her sons: Bruce, Pete and Johnny, plus her much loved and cherished grand-children and great-grandchildren were always close to her heart. She loved having her family around her. She was always so proud of them in whatever their accomplishments were and she couldn't wait to share the good news with other family members or her friends - or pretty much just about anyone she talked to. It didn't matter to her if she was at a wrestling or gymnastics match, football or softball game or watching Kyle in his band---- that time was precious to her. Lori always found a way to remain in close contact with her nieces and nephews- either thru frequent phone calls or occasional visits.
Ginny, I know that Lori was devastated that she was unable to help you and Bob as his illness grows stronger. I believe that many of the candles lit and prayers said -were directed at you both . I hope the priceless memories you have of two sisters growing up together, will help you find comfort today.
At family functions, you would find Lori tending to everyone, cooking their favorite foods, and cleaning up afterwards. She never wanted help- she would just smile and say- "oh no "- just go and enjoy yourself- I can do this.
I was fortunate enough to partake in her famous chicken and dumplings that she made for Julie's birthday each year. Thanks Julie for choosing that as your meal. She joined in the 4th of July games and activities with her children and grandchildren loudly rooting Grandma on to victory. She is the standing Ladder Toss champion. As her illness increased and overwhelmed her strength, she turned to her family with total trust in their care of her. They unselfishly gave of themselves and tended to her every need with the love and devotion she so deserved. (You should all be very proud of how you came together as a family when she needed you most. I have been honored to be included in this family and in Lori's life throughout the years, especially during these final difficult months). Lori taught us how to die with dignity. She never once complained or asked "why me".
Please take a moment now and close your eyes and recall a moment when Lori touched your life:
- Was her outfit matched to her jewelry, her sunglasses, shoes and purse?
- Was she lighting a candle or praying for you?
- Was she sending a card to comfort you or wish you a Happy Birthday?
- Was she cheering you on at a sporting event or activity you were involved in?
- Was she watching the MN Twins (or as she called them "my little boys") and cheering them on to victory.
Your heart can be empty because you can't see her - or you can be full of the love you shared. You can remember her and only that she's gone
or you can cherish her memory and let it live on. Can you imagine the joy on the shores of heaven when her ship was in sight? Her Mom and Dad along with her brothers Richard and Jim waiting to embrace her. And, none of us could even begin to imagine what her reunion with Robin was like. They will be together for eternity. Let the way Lori lived her life be an inspiration as to how we should live ours......,.so when it is time for our final voyage, we too can join her on heaven's shore. You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back or you can do what she'd want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on. Yes, she's gone.............But Lori will always be there in our hearts.
Tributes
"Lori was such a caring person; she graciously included many to share her hospitality. Lori modeled loving behavior and a strong faith. Blessings to all who grieve. "
"Sorry Bruce I didn't mean to leave you out of my latest post, God Bless...."
"I forgot to add that I am Lori's God Daughter. My mother Ramah & Dad Jerry Mattson were best friends and in John & Lori's wedding."
"I always remember the good times as a child with our family and Lori & her family. I have been away from Minn since 1970 but Lori always remembered my birthday. She was such a beautiful person and will be missed dearly. I know she lived for her grandkids ball games & talked about them often. My prayers & toughts go out to Julie, Pete, John & all the grandkids. I am so thankful I got to see Lori July 13 on my recent trip to Minn I am now back in Florida so will not be able to attend the funeral but my heart is with you all."
"I LOVE you so much grandma .. You will be missed by so many people .. You truly a gift from god to all of us . Tnanks for being the best Grams any one could ever ask for .. Terra "
"LORI AND I WERE BEST FREINDS FOR SIXTY SIX YEARS ,GENE AND I WE WILL MISS YOU SO MUCH.. ARE PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. "
"My Aunt Lorrie was such a wonderful nice, kind, fun, sweet, friendly person. What I will remember about Aunt Lorrie is that she loved the Minnesota Twins and liked talking about sports in general to anyone. She was a pleasure to hang out with. She gave so much of herself to her family. Her family here in California will miss her so very much. My prayers are with my Cousins, and their families. Love you all. "
"I used to be Lori's hairdresser in the 60's and 70's..I always remember Lori as a very kind and loving lady who always had a smile on her face and a funny story to tell..I moved from Forest lake 30 years ago..and lost contact
with everyone there.
To Lori's family I send my condolences...I am so sorry for your great loss
Colette (Meehl) Fuller"
"I am so sorry to hear of Lori's passing. I worked with her and will always remember that all the kids used to call her "Grandma Lori". She was a grandma to more than just her family, she was a grandma to everyone! She was so sweet and wonderful and I will never forget her! My prayers go out to all of you at this time."
"Lori SO loved life AND her wonderful family!
As Ginny's longtime friend, I enjoyed seeing Lori and watch her eyes glow as she told of the MANY activities of her grandchildren! "
"Lori was a sweet woman who loved her family and was good to her friends. She will be missed..."
"Julie,
I am very sorry to hear of your loss. She has gone to a better place. I lost my mother 2-1/2 years ago as well and the memories will continue forever."