Our beloved mother, Lori Heller, passed away on August 28.
Lori shared her birth in 1928 with her twin sister, Lili. The girls grew up in Chicago during the Depression and the war and learned how to keep house and take care of their younger brother, Frank, while mom and dad worked. They liked school and having fun and getting together with friends. Dancing was a favorite activity. And they were known to swap dates without telling the unsuspecting boys — yes, they were identical.
In 1948, Lori married the love of her life, John. Five years later they welcomed son Richard to the family. John was offered a promotion in Los Angeles in 1956. While not wanting to leave her family and friends, Lori packed up and moved west while very pregnant with Debra, the first member of the family born in California. The family settled in Altadena in a new tract with lots of young families and soon made friends with the neighbors. There were lots of parties and good times to help ease the transition. It helped that the Dodgers moved west in 1958, and Lori transferred her loyalty from the Cubs. Later, she became a big Lakers fan, too. And for many years there were near annual trips back to Chicago to reconnect. Lori joined the St. Elizabeth’s school Mother’s Club, where Rick and Debbie studied. Their son Ronald completed the family in 1962.
The family moved to the hills of Glendale in 1969, and Lori moved from St. Elizabeth’s congregation to St. Bede’s. She joined the Prime Timers and became active in helping beautify the altar. She also joined the Chevy Chase Garden Club and enjoyed many years meeting with the ladies and supporting community causes. At their 50th anniversary party, Lori and John were still the best dancers in the crowd. They enjoyed family reunions in San Diego (1996) and Maui (2004). Lori enjoyed time with and taking care of her grandchildren, Jenny, Paul, John, Christina, and James.
Lori lost husband John in 2011, and sister Lili in 2019. She is survived by her brother Frank, her three children, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. She was loving, funny, always up for a fun time, and could light up a room.
A graveside service will be held at Forest Lawn in Glendale on Wednesday, September 13, at 11:30 a.m.
