Lori Mari Anderson

Resided in Gladstone, MI
Died December 12, 2021

Lori Mari Anderson, age 67, of Gladstone, passed away Sunday afternoon, December 12, 2021, at Aurora BayCare in Green Bay.

Lori was born April 1, 1954, in Escanaba, the daughter of Roland “Jack” and Mary “Lois” (LaMouria) Sisson. She was raised in Escanaba and attended Holy Name Catholic School before graduating Escanaba High School in 1972. Lori began her career as a private music teacher in 1980 teaching piano, organ and guitar as well as serving as organist at local churches in Gwinn, MI and KI Sawyer AFB. She graduated from Northern Michigan University with a Bachelor in Music Education in 1990. On March 31, 2000, Lori was united in marriage to Richard Anderson and together the couple made their home and spent many wonderful years together in Gladstone. Affectionately known as Mrs. “A” by her students, Lori worked for many years as the music teacher for Gladstone Area Schools where she was known for her beautiful, elaborate concert productions including Madrigal Dinners, performances of popular musical scores and trips to New Orleans, Mackinac Island, Chicago, Interlocken Center For the Arts and Disney World. She was passionate in wanting her students to have opportunities and encouraged them to believe in their potentials! She was a long-time member of the Delta County Piano Teachers Guild where she studied Piano Pedagogy under Ruth Chown. Lori served as the first female director of the Remnants Barbershop Chorus for several years and her musical capacity extended to various other chorus groups, including the quartet group “Mood Swing” which she enjoyed singing and performing around town with her good friends, Rosemary Hakes, Kris McDonald and daughter Loni. She served as choral director, accompanist and church organist at many churches throughout the Delta and Marquette County communities, most recently Salem Lutheran Church in Bark River and Joy Lutheran Church in Escanaba. She loved cooking elaborate holiday feasts but also found much joy in the small things like a good cup of coffee and piece of pie at local restaurants where she enjoyed much laughter and fellowship. She was most happy sharing her love for music with her family, church congregations and many students whom she loved dearly.

In addition to her loving husband Richard, Lori is survived by:
Children: Tyler Sisson, Loni (Chris) Triest, Trent Anderson,
Jennifer Anderson, Rachael (Bill) Wagner,
Nathan (Ashley) Anderson and Jessica Morgan
Brother: Rick (Anita) Sisson
Sister: Jackie Andrus
Grandchildren: Andrew, Saige, Carter, Skye, Ridge, Autumn, Rowan,
Madison, Rory, Gabe, Sophie, Gavin, Sam, Chloe and Trey
Great Grandchildren: Kinsley, Jaxon and one great grandchild on the way
Special Friends: Jamie and Brandi Britton
Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

In addition to her parents, Jack and Lois, Lori was preceded in death by:
Sister: Ester Britton
Brother: Richard Sisson
Sister: Alberta “Bertie” Hiegenberk
Sister: Carol DeBree
Brother: James “Ted” Thomas
Sister: Mary Lee Thomas
Additionally, Lori was preceded in death by “Aunt” Angie and her daughter, Rosemary Hakes

Family will receive friends on Monday, from 1:00PM to 4:00PM, at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Funeral services will follow visiting hours on Monday, at 5:00PM, at the Salem Lutheran Church in Bark River, with Pastor Stephen Cowen officiating. Luncheon will follow in the Salem Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting with arrangements.
The Family asks in lieu of flowers that donations be made to the Salem Lutheran Memorial Organ Fund, a cause that was dear to Lori’s heart.

21 Tributes for “Lori Mari Anderson”

    Words cannot express the magnitude of the sadness we will all have over the loss of Lori. She has given selflessly of herself and her musical talent. She has been a good friend to many, and the joy she gave to those who knew her was infectious. She will watch over her family and her beloved husband and grandchildren from heaven. Rest in Peace, Lori.

    Lori and family,

    Even though we haven’t seen each other in many years, I consider you all a part of my family. I will never be able express how much I am going to miss talking to you. I am truly blessed to have known you and your family.

    All my prayers and love.

    Denise

    We are so very sorry to hear about Lori. Our hearts go out to you Dick and your family at this sad time in your lives. Loriss love of music and her talent to bring it to life was such a gift. I have attended the Barbershop Concerts she directed and the music was awesome. Although Rod & I cannot be there for her funeral please know that we will be there with you in thought and will be praying for your family.

    I was so sadden to hear of Lori’s passing, as was all the Wildflowers. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. I imagine Rosemary meet her at the gates and they are already entertaining the other angels with songs!

    I met Lori years ago when she was the bell choir director at St Patrick’s church in Escanaba. Her love of music was as contagious as her energetic spirit. Flash forward 20 years and she was the music teacher for my kids. A beautiful person inside and out and a wonderful friend. Hugs and prayers to all of you grieving her loss.

    Dick and Family,
    Our condolences and sincere thoughts and prayers go out to you at the loss of your loved one. We always enjoyed our chats and coffee get-togethers.

    I am so saddened to hear of Lori’s passing.

    As a former member of the Remnants chorus, she was a wonderful director with a great sense of humor.
    Her musicality was unparralled.

    I’m so sorry to hear about your beautiful wife,mother ,grandma, sister.Her beautiful smile will be missed by many. Hugs and prayers for all.

    SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS, WE KNOW SHE HAS GONE TO A BETTER PLACE, PEACE BE WITH YOU.
    RAPID RIVER CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH.
    SUNSHINE LADY

    Mrs. Anderson was one of the first people to encourage me to sing, even if it wasn’t in the capacity I wanted. She worked so hard to provide her students with opportunities and encouragement. Out of all of the teachers I had in Gladstone, both she and her husband were two that stood out for going above and beyond to care for their students. She’ll be forever missed.

    What a tragic loss. Lori was such a wonderful addition to the broad musical community and a wonderful friend to many. As a member of the Delta Wildflowers, we were grateful for the kindness, compassion and support Lori extended to our dear Rosemary Hakes. We will hold them both in our hearts. Cherish your memories.

    Our deepest sympathy. Lori was the kindest soul; such a generous, beautiful person that always had time to talk with you. She will be so greatly missed. God’s Blessings be with you all during this difficult time and always. All our love, Matt & Kelly

    We’ve only known Lori for the time she has played piano and organ at Salem Lutheran Church. She had the kindest eyes and always a beautiful smile whenever we met her.

    When she played Amazing Grace on the piano, it sent chills up your spine. She put her heart and soul into the song. Salem has lost a beautiful soul, but her talent will never be forgotten.

    Richard, your memories will always be sweet because she was one of a kind.

    Rest In Peace Lori. You will always be special in our hearts.

    I took guitar lessons from Lori many many years ago at KI Sawyer AFB.
    She was a great teacher and a gentle soul.
    I’m sorry to hear of her passing.
    My condolences to her family and friends.

    Lori and I were best friends when we were kids. I will treasure those memories. The fun we had in Christmas in the summers was the best. I’ll never forget the Mustang. Rest In Peace my friend❤️

    I was so saddened to see this! Lori was one of my piano teachers. I want to tell you my favorite! She was so fun! This was approximately 34 years ago. At that time was, she was doing piano lessons at Mrs. Chown’s house. I wanted to be a music teacher, but never happened. I also worked with Loni at the Gladstone Dairy Flo! I am so sorry for your loss. I wish I could pay my repects in person but am in quarantine. Much prayers and love in this time!
    Sarah (Rose) Kleiman

    My condolences to the Lori’s family. I got to know Lori when my son, Thomas Gierke took piano lessons from her. She was a wonderful teacher and one who helped Tom keep an interest in playing the piano. I will keep you in thought and prayer. May the memories you had of Lori help ease your pain in time. I will keep you in thought and prayer.

    Sorry for your loss,she was a wonderful person and a wonderful teacher. She will be greatly missed, sending prayers.

    The Greniers: Zach, Ryan, Kayla, and Fred

    I was so sorry to hear of the recent death of Lori. We were good friends in grade school ( st. Anne’s). My condolences to Lori’s family. She was a beautiful person with a great gift for playing the piano. Rest In Peace my friend.

    So sorry to hear about Lori! She and I became friends at EAHS where Holy Name students attended and graduated.
    She was a great friend because I was a new student also. I visited her at KI Sawyer when she lived there and recently Mike and I have seen her with Dick at different restaurants! What a beautiful, strong and talented woman she was and will be greatly missed!

    It was wonderful to chat with her!

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