Obit: Lobacz, Grace (1929 – 2017)

Transcriber: stan@wiclarkcountyhistory.org

Surnames: Lobacz, Lockbaum, Turenne, Elkins, Mollerud, Reilly, Fredrickson, Cribb, Sporrer, Nolechek

----Source: THORP COURIER (Thorp, Clark County, Wis.) 27 Dec 2017

Lobacz, Grace (18 MAR 1929 – 23 DEC 2017)

Grace was many different things to many people throughout her life. She worked hard, persisted through the tough times, never took for granted the good, and above all, kept the Faith. Grace loved deeply and most of all found peace and happiness in the memories.

She was born March 18, 1929, to the late Albert and Mildred (Lockbaum) Turenne, in Reseburg Township. She grew up with her beloved family on the farm. Grace's favorite pastime was to share memories of her life. The memories of life on the farm and exploits with her brothers and sisters; memories of her children, the fun they had, and helping them grow in their lives; and all the adventures she had with the countless individuals she loved. She cherished grandchildren and all the good they brought; and was fortunate enough to see her great-grandchildren grow. The generations brought Grace joy, purpose, and countless experiences and memories that she was always willing to chuckle about.

Grace showed her love to those around her by sharing her talents of cooking, baking, sewing, and listening. She crafted many quilts over the years and most recently enjoyed sewing baby quilts that she shared with the kids. Grace's last gift to her great-grandchildren were Christmas stockings that she was fortunate enough to complete. She passed along her enthusiasm for these things, so that generations after will remember her part in their lives and share that love. And if you had a nickname or a special treat she made when you were around, you were extra special.

She loved her family unconditionally and worked hard to provide and create a home for them. It wasn't always easy, but life never is; and she provided the best way she knew how, through hard work, dedication, and determination. On January 29, 1947, Grace was united in marriage to George Lobacz, at St. Bernard's Catholic Church. The couple farmed on George's family farm, in the Town of Reseburg, until 1963, when they moved to Thorp. She then cooked at the Thorpedo and Oakbrook Manor for many years, and enjoyed the friendships she cultivated and the laughs that were shared. After her retirement, she focused on caring for George and doing as much as possible with her family. She worked hard throughout her life and passed that work ethic on to her children.

Grace aged with dignity and because of her support system was able to make choices that kept her safe and comfortable until her death. Grace knew that change was inevitable and because of her faith was able to embrace the seasons of her life with grace and courage.

One of the most important things we can do throughout life is care for our loved ones and Grace was blessed with people that cared deeply and showed that through action. Wednesday lunches with the Turenne Family; being close to her brother, Phil; visits, phone calls, and cards from family and friends were all very special and meant the world to Grace.

On Saturday, December 23rd, surrounded by her family, Grace was welcomed Home by her husband, George (2007), son, Walter (1972); daughter, Barbara (2002); and granddaughter, Amy Elkins (1972); her mother and father; siblings: Paul, Willard, Marion, Eleanor, and Fred; and many other friends and relatives. Knowing that they all were in Heaven waiting for her brought Grace great peace and comfort throughout her last days.

She is survived by her loving family, including daughters: Georgia (Ted) Mollerud, Altoona, Suzette (Dan) Reilly, Milwaukee, Carol (Ron) Fredrickson, Lublin, and Debra (Dean) Cribb, Green Bay; 13 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; siblings: Betty Sporrer, Charles (Chuck) Turenne, Clarence (Anita) Turenne, John (Janet) Turenne, and Julia Turenne; son-in-law, William P. ; Nolechek; many nieces and nephews; and other family members and friends.

A mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m., Friday, December 29, at St. Bernard-St. Hedwig Catholic Church, Thorp. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, December 28, at the Thorp Funeral Home; and again on Friday, beginning at 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment will be in St. Bernard's Catholic Cemetery.

Grace's family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to: Lisa Lehman, Grace's niece; Janelle 'Buffy' and Jerry at The Waterford of Colby; and the entire team at Dycora Transitional Health & Living, Abbotsford. Because of all of you, Grace's life was truly enriched and it means the world to know she was cared for so lovingly.