Minnetonka, MN - Lola Perpich, age 94, died May 6, 2025. Born in Keewatin, MN, in 1931, the youngest of 6 children of Croatian immigrants John and Ann Simich. Beloved wife of Rudy (1928-1995), cherished mother of daughter Mary Sue and son Rudy, devoted grandmother of Talia. Lola and Rudy met when she was a waitress at Chappel's Malt Shop in Keewatin. Rudy said he knew he was going to marry her after their first date. They spent their lives intertwined, raising their family and working together in a career in politics. Lola's passion for enriching students' lives led to the founding of The Perpich Center for Arts Education. In acknowledgment of their devoted partnership, Rudy included Lola in his gubernatorial portrait at the state capitol, the first time a spouse was included in an official portrait. A private service has been held. Lola and Rudy are buried next to each other at Lakewood Cemetery, where their monument inscription reads, "Heaven exists wherever love flourishes, together on earth we lived in heaven." Memorials preferred to an organization dear to both, The Center for Victims of Torture, 2356 University Ave. West, Suite 430, St. Paul, MN, 55114, or www.cvt.org, click donate.