Lori Gay Madden
Gapinski, age 55, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 30, 2014, with
her family by her side.
She was born to
James and Constance Madden on April 7, 1958, in Freeport, Ill., where she
married Lloyd M. Gapinski on June 20, 1987.
He survives, as
does their 16 year-old son, Matthew James Gapinski in Chesterton, Ind.
Also surviving are
her father; one sister, Lynne (Bill) Yowell of Hudson, Ill.; one brother,
Mark (Beth) Madden of Iowa City, Ia.; father-in-law, Maurycy A. Gapinski and
brothers-in-law, Lennard (Cheryl) and Raymond of Monticello, Ind., as well
as many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and nieces.
Lori graduated from
Freeport Senior High School in 1976 and after attending Coe College for two
years, graduated from St. Louis University in 1981 with a degree in medical
records administration. Just out of college she worked at Saint Anthony's
Hospital in Michigan City, Ind., when she was set up on a blind date that
ended in marriage to the love of her life.
She continued
working in the medical field until their child arrived. Lori's joy in life
came from her family and friends, especially her son whom she treasured.
Lori was the
guardian of family traditions and history and had instant recall of people,
places, dates and times. She was the chief event planner for family football
weekends, holidays and reunions.
Lori was an active
member of P.E.O. and St. John’s parish. Over the years, her P.E.O. sisters
and church members filled her with comfort and warmth and she enjoyed those
relationships immensely, as she did her long time friends from high school
and college. She loved catching up with her Delta Delta Delta sorority
sisters and would not miss a high school reunion or a chance to get together
with a childhood friend.
The family would
like to thank those who were her exceptional caregivers and her extended
family over the last few years, including those at Whispering Pines,
Valparaiso Care and Rehabilitation Center and Porter Regional Hospital.
A celebration of
life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2014, at St. John
United Church, 225 W. Lincoln, Chesterton, Ind., 46304, with Pastor Heidi
Vardeman officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. immediately
preceding the service with burial after the service at Angelcrest Cemetery
in Valparaiso.
Memorials may be
directed to the women's education and philanthropical organization, P.E.O.,
Chapter ED, in care of Treasurer Barb Von Huben, 298 East US Hwy 6,
Valparaiso, Ind., 46383.