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.
Roberts Family Life Celebration Home
Forest Lake, MN 55025
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