Fond Memories

This blog was created for the folks that can't make it out to the family memorial for grandma in Kansas. This will give us a place to post memories of grandma and share it among family. She was a wonderful woman that had a strong impact on a lot of people through out her long life, I was definitely one of them.

When I first think of grandma, I think of memories of visiting her and grandpa during spring break on 45th street. I remember discovering lamb and mint jelly, what seemed very strange at first but was like fries and ketchup afterward. Getting up in the mornings and having fresh off the tree grapefruits with sugar and then squeezing out the juice to drink it. Grandma was always willing to play with me too, I remember playing the nerf fencing game with her and couldn't believe it when she actually beat me, she had such long arms!

One of the most important memories for me though is when grandma came and stayed with us when our mom took a turn for the worse. She was there when she passed and although I can't imagine how difficult it was for her, she stayed strong for the rest of us during that traumatic time. I always will remember grandma being there when I needed her the most, whether it be with food, a hug or just a shoulder to cry on. She was an amazing woman and I will miss her dearly. I know she is in a better place though, reunited with loved ones and smiling like she always was.

Love you grandma.

Lorraine Happ, November 22nd, 1913 to November 30th, 2010

Lorraine Koller Happ, died peacefully at Manor Care of Overland Park, KS, on November 30, 2010. Lorraine was 97 years old, November 22 (1913). Her survivors: daughter, Nanette May (Paul Gafrick), son, Jerry Roscoe (Molly Happ). Her deceased daughters: Marlyn Joy (Vern Thornton), Deborah Sue (Neil Campbell). Lorraine has 9 grandchildren, Steve V. Thornton, Wm. Ross Thornton (Debbie Dunseth), Bradley (Michelle Thornton), Jane (Douglas K. Kositzke), Steven P. (Gretchen Gafrick), Nicole (Benton McLeod), Amy (David Choe), Jerry R. Jr. (Christine Happ), Ian (Alissa Campbell). There are 23 great- grandchildren, too numerous to list. Grandma Happ was a wonderful mother, grandmother, and confidant. We will miss her friendly smile and loving touch. We thank GOD for blessing us with such a caring mother: Rest in peace, dearest mother. Entombment will be in West Palm Beach, FL. "We know we have passed out of death into life because we love the brethren," Luke.