Peoria, AZ - Laurie (Kimball) Wenande, 60, of Bloomington, MN, passed away peacefully after a courageous

multi-year battle with breast cancer. Though her time with us was cut far too short, Laurie lived

each day with remarkable grace, resilience, and an infectious joy that touched countless lives.

Throughout her life, Laurie faced numerous health challenges, yet she rarely complained and

always maintained a positive outlook that inspired everyone around her. Her strength wasn't loud or boastful—it was quiet, steady, and deeply felt by all who knew her. She had an

extraordinary gift for making people feel welcomed, valued, and loved, and her social nature meant that she cultivated vibrant communities of friends wherever life took her.

Laurie and her beloved husband Scott created a home filled with warmth, hospitality, and

celebration. Whether in Sioux Falls, Chanhassen, or Peoria, their door was always open, and

they were known for hosting gatherings that brought people together in laughter and joy. The

couple shared an enduring love and partnership that will be remembered by all who witnessed

it. Scott preceded Laurie in death just seven months ago in a tragic car accident, and we take

comfort knowing they are reunited in heaven, together once more.

Laurie was a devoted mother who poured her heart into her family. She delighted in being

"Mom" and "Nana," roles she cherished above all else. Her love for her daughters and

grandchildren knew no bounds, and she created countless precious memories with them

through her thoughtfulness, encouragement, and unconditional support.

Laurie is survived by her daughters, Kelsie Byrd (husband Brooks) and their children Isabella,

Emmelia, and Jackson; and Katie Schulz (husband Ben) and their children Violet, Sophia, and

Lindy. She also leaves behind her sisters Carol Anderson, Debbie (Andy) Baltgalvis, Diane (Larry) Raasch, and Julie (Mark) Henrich, as well as her cherished dog Pebbles, and countless friends who became family.

She is reunited in heaven with her parents, Norma and Don Kimball; her sister Nancy Czarnecki; her brother Tom Kimball; and her beloved husband Scott Wenande.

Laurie's legacy is one of love, positivity, and community. She showed us all how to face adversity with grace, how to build meaningful connections, and how to find joy in life's simple moments. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her, and her memory will continue to inspire us to love more deeply, laugh more freely, and embrace each day with gratitude.

Though we grieve her passing, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a love that will never fade. A memorial service for Laurie will be held Monday, December 8, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Westwood Community Church (3121 Westwood Drive, Excelsior, MN 55331). Visitation will start at 10:00 a.m. and a luncheon will follow the service. Memorial donations may be made to

Metavivor, metastatic breast cancer research.