Laurie Lenz

Laurie Ann (Westrum) Lenz, age 66, passed away on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at Methodist Hospital in Rochester, MN. Laurie gained her angel wings after a very courageous battle with cancer.

Laurie was born December 10, 1957, in Albert Lea, MN to Cleon and Helene (Nelson) Westrum. She was the third of four children, and she grew up in a very loving household. Laurie grew up having lots of fun with her brothers, sister and many cousins.

On June 25, 1977, Laurie married the love of her life, Lonny Lenz, at First Lutheran Church in Albert Lea, where she was a lifelong member. Lonny and Laurie did everything together; they went on numerous trips all over the United States, they loved to go out to supper, and especially enjoyed going to the casino with their best friends, Ronnie and Connie Drescher. Even though Laurie grew up a “city girl” she dove right into her role as the “perfect farmwife” always helping with the physical side of labor (with only minor grumbling) when needed and she also did the majority of the farm bookwork, billing and tax preparation. She completely understood that farming is not just an occupation for one person in the family, but it is a generational “way of life” which all family members need to participate in and preserve for future generations.

Lonny and Laurie’s union was blessed with three children, Jason, Derek and Lanae. Laurie was the most devoted mother; she would do anything for her children. She never missed an athletic game, concert, or any other milestone in her children’s lives. She instilled good values and morals in them which laid a good foundation for them to be productive adults. She was also blessed with three grandchildren, Tianna, Andi and Asher and they were her pride and joy in her life. After raising her children, Laurie worked at Mrs. Gerry’s for over 20 years.

Everyone who met Laurie absolutely adored her. Her beautiful smile just lit up the room, and she was a true joy to be around. She had a way of making you feel special. Many of her children’s friends also viewed Laurie as a second mother to them, as she was so sweet and caring.

Laurie was the finest homemaker; her meals and baked goods were legendary; she would even give Martha Stewart a run for her money! Everyone had their favorite “Laurie” baked good. She was the first one to make a hot dish or a pan of bars for a friend in need. She loved to host holiday gatherings and parties for her friends and family. Her faith and church were especially important to her, and she spent many hours volunteering for various things that needed to be done. Laurie also enjoyed shopping (for almost anything!) and going out with the Conger Ladies Club.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband of 46 years, Lonny; children Jason Lenz, Derek (Katie) Lenz, and Lanae Lenz; grandchildren, Tianna Boyd, and Andi and Asher Lenz; sister Linda Bossart; brothers Craig (Karen) Westrum and Charles (Carole) Westrum; sister-in-law Delores Lenz and many nieces and nephews.

Laurie is preceded in death by her parents, Cleon and Helene Westrum; parents-in -law, Stanley and Idoris Lenz; brothers-in-law Robert Bossart and Larry Lenz.

A funeral service will be held on May 9, 2024, at 11:00 AM at First Lutheran Church in Albert Lea, MN; Pastor Trish Reedstrom will officiate. Laurie’s family will greet guests at a visitation on May 8, 2024, from 4:00-7:00 PM at Bayview Freeborn Funeral Home in Albert Lea, MN, and for one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will be at Shady Oaks Cemetery in Rural Albert Lea.