Lorayne “Lorry” Marilyn Rannetsberger passed away quietly and peacefully on December 26, 2016 in Duluth, at the age of 80 surrounded by her loving family at St. Mary’s Hospital after complications arose from her recent surgery.
Lorry was born September 18, 1936 to parents Joseph S. Schinn and Bernhild A. (Collander) Schinn in Duluth, Minnesota. She graduated from Hermantown High School, class of 1954. Lorry was an excellent student, always on the Honor Roll and she played the clarinet in the high school marching band. She attended UMD and was confirmed in the Lutheran faith. In her early youth she was a Girl Scout and was active in local 4-H projects. Lorry met her future husband, Russell, while working one summer at Lutsen Resort. They made their home in Lutsen and lived there for many decades, raising their family near the bank of Alfred Creek. Lorry had recently moved from the Lutsen homestead to Silver Bay to be nearby her children and their families.
Those who knew Lorry were embraced by a very kind, gracious and lovely lady who never had a negative word about anyone; her concern and compassion for others was always evident.
Lorry’s top priority and Joy in life was her FAMILY and she was so proud of all their accomplishments as she kept up to date with their activities. She was always supportive and lived vicariously through their adventures! Lorry was known for her prolific and witty letters, never forgetting a birthday and often including a cartoon, recipe, or clipping of interest in her mailings. Pretty stamps and paper were a favored gift. She would smile to know how many of us have saved her handwritten treasures!
Lorry inherited many skills from her Swedish mother and became an excellent baker and cook. She was creative at crocheting, sewing and knitting. Her hand made Christmas ornaments that she generously gifted are true keepsakes. She loved a good book, a game of Canasta, crossword puzzles and playing her piano. Also, western movies and anything the color blue! When running errands in Grand Marais, she would truly enjoy a relaxing time at the harbor, maybe after a stop at the local Dairy Queen, to watch the boats and seagulls or other ongoing events.
Lorry was preceded in death by her parents, husband Russell, infant son John, infant grandson Matthew Parker, brothers Gerry, Steve (Stevie) and Dale and nephew Joseph (Joey) Schinn.
She is survived by her children: Paul (Terri) Rannetsberger, Nina (Ray) Parker, David (Julie) Rannetsberger, Lynn Downing and Sara Rannetsberger, 9 Grandchildren and 3 Great Grandchildren. She leaves her sister Kathy (Mike) Kimball, brother Duane (Gloria) Schinn, sister-in-law Lilli Schinn, many nieces, nephews, cousins and two special aunts, Mrs. Borghild (Collander) Kittel and Mrs. Mary Schinn. Also left to mourn her passing are her oldest and dearest friends, Carol (Nelson) Lyon and Jim and Joan Hall, who were always there for her and they shared much humor and many fun filled times together. Lorry had a unique and special relationship with each and every person in her tight circle.
All who knew and loved her will sadly miss lorry’s grace and laughter. Her brother-in-law stated, ‘She was one in a million’ for her genuine kindness and caring. Her brother Duane said ‘They threw the mold away when Lorry came along.’ Farewell, precious Lorry and rest in peace.
At Lorry’s request, cremation and no services at this time were honored.
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