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Lorraine Soderquist 08/17/2020

Lorraine Bernice (Peterson) Soderquist, age 96, of New Richmond passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Monday, August 17, 2020 at the St. Croix Health Center. She was born Feb 9, 1924 to Oscar and Tillie (Martinson) Peterson in Alden Township. In 1941, Lorraine graduated from Amery High School. She worked at The Pufftee Plant and then as a housekeeper after graduation. Lorraine moved to Chicago in 1943 and was united in marriage to Robert Soderquist on March 12, 1943. In Nov 1943, she moved home to New Richmond when Bob went overseas. They bought Bob’s parents house and lived there until 1954. Next, they bought the Johannesburg Store and lived there for seven years, where they made many lasting friendships. After selling the store and moving to Star Prairie, she worked at a flower shop and then as a teacher’s aide for 17 years. Lorraine enjoyed working at the school with all the kids. Many family vacations were taken. During Bob’s June 6th birthday and Jerry’s June 13th birthday a cabin was always rented on East Balsam Lake. The family enjoyed the area and spent time fishing and swimming. Lorraine enjoyed the Sunshine Circle at church, the ten ladies in the group rarely missed a meeting and they did many volunteer activities. Lorraine also spent many hours crocheting doilies, embroidering dish towels and enjoyed giving them as gifts, as well as cooking and entertaining. She was a member of the Legion Auxiliary for over 70 years and worked hard at all the events. Her family was very important part of her life. She and Bob were married for 73 years and they were blessed with children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. After Bob’s death in 2016 she moved to the St. Croix Health Center. Lorraine is survived by her children, Jerry Soderquist, Barbara (Sam) Boatman, and Diane Bulman; grandchildren, Christine (Dan) Redetzke, Wendy (Todd) Muska, Joel (Janna) Bulman; great-grandchildren, Nick Muska, Sam Muska, Elizabeth Redetzke, Seth Redetzke, Owen McKenna; Veronika Bastien; many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert Soderquist; brothers, Clarence, Lyle, Harlen, Mervin and Ray; sisters, Gladys, Loretta, and Audrey; son-in-law, Curt Bulman; daughter-in-law, Gail Soderquist. A memorial service was held Sunday, August 23, 2020 at 3:00 pm at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services (728 S Knowles Ave.) in New Richmond. Visitation was also on Sunday from 1:00-3:00 pm. Guests attending are asked to wear masks and practice physical distancing. Interment was in Oakland Cemetery in Star Prairie. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.

2 Comments

  • Lori Halvorson Opelt Posted August 20, 2020 5:42 pm

    My deepest sympathy with the passing of Lorraine, There is no way she was 96…that is her great genes. I have good memories of her coming to Ethel Halvorsons for card parties and food, food and food. I remember how faithful Lorraine was visiting Ethel in Maple Manor.Lorraine always had a grin on her face and loved to laugh. It sure is different on “Swede” road, I believe she and Buddy Nelson were the last survivors of that Era. She had a good life and it paid off with her years of living.I’m sending a virtual hug to Diane. You were a great support to your parents.

  • Maureen Dalton Posted August 20, 2020 8:53 pm

    “Service not self” part of the American Legion Auxiliary Motto, as a 72 year member of our American Legion Auxiliary Family Lorraine certainly lived up to that motto.Many events she helped get going are still part of our Auxiliary. Thank-you Lorraine !

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