Lorraine is survived by her nieces and nephew, Nancy Brudelie, Diane Becken, Doug (Linda) Becken; great nieces, and great nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, H. Marlowe (Ardelle) Becken; and nephews, Bryan Becken, Dennis Brudelie.

Lorraine Viola Becken was born on December 31, 1921 in Hanska to Casper and Clara (Rusten) Becken. She graduated from Hanska High School and then Graduated from Mankato State College with a Bachelor of Science Degree and later received her Master of Science Degree. She taught rural schools for sixteen years and then taught at Emerson and Jefferson Schools in New Ulm for thirty years. Lorraine was a favorite amongst her third grade students. To the end, she was still being invited to their weddings, baby showers and birthday parties. Some would visit her at her apartment to relive the fond memories they had of a teacher who had such a huge impact on their young lives. This connection to those who knew her carried over into her personal life. There wasn’t a person around who had anything but positive feelings about her. Her memory was impeccable. If anyone ever had a question about Hanska history, they knew to ask Lorraine. She was quick with a story and always ready with a cup of coffee and a doughnut or cookies. She was a caretaker of her parents while holding down a full time teaching job. Never a complainer, she did it all with dignity and grace.

Lorraine was a life member of Nora Unitarian-Universalist Church and was an organist and Sunday school teacher, Retired Educators Association of Minnesota, Delta Kappa Gamma Society (Vice president state office), Sons of Norway (Accompanied folk dancers for twenty five years), Turner Ladies society for fifty years, Minnesota Forestry Association. Lorriane was the 1975 Teacher of the Year District 88 in New Ulm.

www.mvfh.org

COMMENTS

[vivafbcomment]