Lorraine Marie Weirich, nee Friedel, 102, of Leslie, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024, at her residence.
She was born Sept. 27, 1921, in St. Louis, to Oscar O. and Catherine E. (Ohligschlager) Friedel. She grew up in St. Louis, was baptized in the Evangelical Church, and graduated second in her class from Ritenour High School in 1939. After graduation, Lorraine attended Rubicam Business School and then worked as a secretary for the city of St. Louis in the welfare program and later at Robertson Aircraft Airforce Dept.
Lorraine led a rich and fulfilling life centered around family, community, and the joys of rural living. She moved to the country in 1943 to help on the family farm in Leslie where she remained for the rest of her life. It was here that she met her husband, Charles Kermit Weirich. Despite the challenges of wartime, Lorraine and Charles found time to nurture their connection, cherishing 15 dates before they married on June 30, 1946. Their enduring love was evident when they celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary many years later. Their union was blessed with four children, Pat, Kerry, Jan, and Dale who undoubtedly brought immeasurable joy and purpose to their lives.
Lorraine was very involved in her children’s lives and the community. She volunteered as a 4-H leader, school PTO member, school room mother at the R-15 School, and as a Sunday school teacher at UCC Church in Gerald. Lorraine’s favorite pastimes were reading, handiwork of all kinds, but especially counted cross stitch, mind puzzles, and flower gardening. She always enjoyed the many activities of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her family was her life’s love.
She was preceded in death by husband, Charles Kermit Weirich in 2012; son, Dale Edward Weirich in 1979; and brother, Robert Friedel.
She is survived by daughters, Pat Brune and husband Ron and Jan Fritzemeyer and husband Ed all of Leslie; son, Kerry Weirich and wife Wanda of Washington; grandchildren, Dr. John Weirich and wife Laura of Tucson, Ariz., Lori Ulrich and husband Kevin of Sullivan, Rafe Fritzemeyer and wife Stacy, Chris Brune and wife Gina, Jamie Brune and wife Sarah, Brandy Heidbrink and husband Doug, and Chas Fritzemeyer and wife Nicole all of Leslie; 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; sisters-in-law, Bernice Weirich, Ima Jean Meyer , and Shirley Brautigam; and nieces, nephews, and many friends.
Funeral services were conducted Saturday, Feb. 17, at the United Church of Christ in Gerald with Pastor Rhonda Winters officiating. Burial was in Martin-Weirich Cemetery in Leslie.
Memorials to the UCC Church in Gerald or Martin-Weirich Cemetery are appreciated.
Arrangements under the care of Gottenstroeter Funeral Home in Gerald.
