Balkenol
Lois Lorine
(nee Zimmerman)
Passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family Jan. 5, 2018 at age 95. Preceded in death by her love and protector, husband John. Survived by children Bonita Balkenol, Johnette Hessburg, Russ (Roxanne) Balkenol; grandchildren Nick Balkenol, Anne Hessburg, Johnathan Balkenol, Jacob Hessburg, Paul Hessburg, Jr., Hans Hessburg and Giselle Hessburg; great grandsons Owen and Max Hessburg. Lois was a lifelong athlete, winning many championships in swimming, basketball, cross country and golf. She loved children and her job as an elementary school teacher. She taught at both Presentation of BVM and Hazelwood Elementary in Maplewood. In addition, she was a visiting teacher to homebound students bringing lessons and books. Lois was a member of the Maryknoll Garden club and with other members kept the ‘triangle’ at the juncture of Maryknoll and Summer Ave. blooming. She participated in flower shows and loved to have fresh cut flowers around the house. Lois was a Girl Scout leader sharing her love of camping, hiking and the great outdoors. She loved to travel and family and friends knew she kept her suitcase out and packed and ready for the next adventure! An avid bridge player, Lois belonged to two bridge clubs and continued to play in to her 90’s. Lois loved people and kept in contact with extended family and friends. Birthday, wedding, baby, graduation, new job, illness, people received a card, phone call and offer of help and support. Lois loved to read and learn new things. In her 80’s she took a Spanish language course. As there was not a Spanish translation for Lois she was called Pilar. She checked the NYT best seller list each week and ordered new books both fiction and non-fiction. Visitation this Friday, April 27, 10:30 AM at SANDBERG FUNERAL HOME, 2593 E. 7th Ave., North St. Paul. Service at 11:00 AM followed by a noon luncheon at K and J Catering, North St. Paul. Private family burial at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.