Lorna Lee Strauser
Lorna Lee Strauser, 91, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 17, 2024, at the Meramec Nursing Center in Sullivan, MO. Born on July 17, 1932, in Maplewood, MO, to Ambrose and Claire “Alfa” (Stroup) Vassalli, Lorna's life was a tapestry of love, dedication, and service woven through the years she spent with her family and community.
Lorna's early years were spent in Rock Hill, MO, where she grew up and attended local schools, forming the foundation of a life characterized by warmth and generosity. Her journey led her to Sullivan, where she would eventually settle with her family and create a home filled with love.
On June 15, 1951, Lorna married Richard Blum, and together they welcomed two children into the world, Dan and Ricki. The family grew and thrived under Lorna's nurturing care. Her role as a mother expanded when she married Clark Strauser in November of 1962. Their union was blessed with three more children: Clark Eugene, Lori, and Jerry. As a devoted homemaker, Lorna's days were filled with the joy and challenges of raising a vibrant, loving family.
Lorna's hands were rarely still, as she found great pleasure in sewing and embroidering, creating beautiful pieces that would become cherished family heirlooms. Her love for cooking was renowned, especially when it came to preparing Thanksgiving dinners, where she would pour her heart into every dish, creating not just a meal, but a celebration of togetherness.
With her husband Clark by her side, Lorna enjoyed simple pleasures such as playing cards and going for car rides, each moment an opportunity to strengthen the bond they shared. Her faith was a guiding light in her life, and she was a dedicated member of the Faith Assembly of God of Sullivan. Lorna's commitment to her church was evident in the many funeral dinners she helped prepare over the years, offering comfort to others in their times of need.
Lorna is survived by her children, Dan Blum and wife Becky, Ricki Blum, Gene Strauser and wife Jennifer, Lori Heidebrink and husband Mike all of Sullivan, MO, and Jerry Strauser of Bourbon, MO; 18 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; three brothers: Ronald Vassalli of Sullivan, Dale Vassalli of Wichita, KS, and Daniel Vassalli of Fenton, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Clark Strauser; parents, Ambrose and Claire “Alfa” Vassalli; a step-daughter, Connie Hager; and a sister, Nedra Freeman.
Services will be 10:00 AM, Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan with Pastor Ronald Pettet officiating. Interment will be in Cave Spring Cemetery, Sullivan.
Visitation will be 3:30 PM to 7:00 PM, Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at the Eaton Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be given in Lorna’s memory to the American Diabetes Association.
Condolences may be shared online with Lorna’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, MO.