Delores Lohrberg

Delores Lohrberg shared a lifetime of laughter through her outgoing nature. She will forever be remembered for her ability to find joy in life. She was a loving wife, a caring mother, and a cherished grandmother and friend to all. She was a good soul, and she will be dearly missed.

In 1939, the world was bracing itself as WWII began, and the nation felt the responsibility to roll up their sleeves and help the war efforts. It was also a time in which amazing advancements were introduced: the first transatlantic passenger service - flying from New York to England. People found hope and distraction with the release of the film, "Gone With the Wind", which was Delores' favorite movie of all time. All the while, James & Beulah (Borton) Shultz were also looking for hope and joy which was found when they welcomed their first beautiful daughter, Delores, to the world.

Delores made her life's debut early in the year of 1939, as she was born on January 20th in Three Rivers, Michigan. Before long, Delores helped welcome her little brother, Ted to the world. Eventually, she would also experience life with even more siblings, as she grew up amongst 3 half-sisters, 2 half brothers, and 3 step sisters. Needless to say, there were not very many dull moments in her childhood, for there was always someone to play with or something exciting brewing. Most of her youth was spent growing up in Vicksburg.

As a young girl, Delores enjoyed being active outdoors. She loved playing baseball and often played with her best friend, Barb. She gained confidence and skills in the Girl Scouts as a Brownie which she would share in leadership later on in life. As she matured, she attended Vicksburg High School where she participated in the band and played the clarinet. She graduated with the class of 1957.

Upon earning her high school diploma, she began working at Upjohn and attended Tracy's Beauty Academy. She gained her beauty skills, but she also gained a love opportunity that would change her life forever. Through a classmate named Lalanne, Delores was introduced to Robert. Lalanne was soon to become Delores' sister-in-law because there was a definite connection made in the love match she set up. The happy couple married on March 1, 1959, in a church in Vicksburg.

The newlyweds, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Lohrberg, looked forward to the life ahead of them. The adventure of raising a family began when they welcomed two children into the world, Robert II and Dawn. The family of four shared many happy times together as they grew up. Pretty much all of those times included Boston Bull Terriers - family pets who provided many licks and cuddles to all of the family members.

Delores was a stay at home mom for the initial years of raising her children. She also worked dispatching for the fire department. She became a Cub Scout and a 4-H leader amongst many other activities in which she was involved. Traditional Sunday mornings included a visit to the church where Delores shared her spiritual side as their Sunday School teacher as well. She very much enjoyed supporting her kids in their various youthful ventures, and she was always active while living with a strong faith throughout her lifetime. These qualities had great positive impact on her children as they grew up. Her family's taste buds will fondly recall her specialty meals. Goulash, porcupine balls, baked beans, and tapioca were amongst the favorite dishes she created.

When the family needed some time away from home, they looked to adventures in natural settings while camping. They traveled to many locations, but their favorite campsite spot was always in Cadillac. In addition, they created many memorable moments while traveling to Mammoth Cave and Nashville.

The years flitted by, and the Lohrberg family matured leaving Delores and Robert as empty nesters. As one lifetime closed the doors, another door opened to the joy of grandchildren. Nichole, Chelsea, Leslie, and Rachel brought abundant love into Delores' heart. She thoroughly adored these young lives and participated fully as their grandmother. Delores also had the opportunity to work alongside her daughter for 17 1/2 years in the Fiesta Salon. Many heartfelt conversations were shared during their times together. As time progressed, Delores was delighted to share the blessing of 4 great-grandchildren as well.

Later in life, when children and grandchildren were busy living lives of their own, Delores kept herself happy and occupied. She and Robert explored the country together with the sounds of country music for the soundtrack of their adventures. When it was time for Robert to buy a new truck, one could look to Delores' fingers to showcase a new, sparkling ring, for she always treated herself when the truck purchase was official! As an avid fan of the Detroit Tigers and the Lions, Delores felt her share of disappointment and anticipation while cheering for both teams - through the good and the bad. During the holiday season, she would spend many hours preparing to have friends and family over to celebrate the excitement of Christmas on the Eve. This provided her much delight because she loved the holiday. On colder days when the holidays were behind her, she would knit, crochet and cross stitch warmth in her lap. Many of the creations are now left behind as artifacts of her love.

In the year of 2006, Delores and her family faced difficult times, as her lifelong companion and husband passed away after struggling against lung cancer. With the love and support of her dear ones, she held close the memories she shared with Robert over their 48 years together.

Delores continued to share her wonderful sense of humor. Her laughter was contagious during the many games of Bingo and undefeated card games. Though she said her son often cheated at these card games, she miraculously won over and over again (who cheated?).

Delores was easy to love. Her outgoing personality and her ability to find the simple joys in life will never be forgotten. Sadly, Delores Lohrberg passed away on July 14, 2017, after 78 years in this lifetime. It brings comfort to know that she is now in heavenly peace with Robert Erle Lohrberg, her beloved husband.

Visit with her family and friends and view her life story film on Tuesday, July 18 from 11:00 to 12:00 at the Life Story Funeral Home, Vicksburg; 409 S. Main St. (649-1697). A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the same location.

Delores’ family includes her children: Robert (Karen) Lohrberg II; Dawn (Mark) Williams-McCloud; her siblings: Evert (Kathy) Mort Jr., Janice (James) Hamilton, David Mort, Louise Dewitt, Terry Green, Sharon (Louis) Terpstra, Rita Shek and Mary (Michael) Ewoski; grandchildren: Nichole Williams, Chelsea (Hazen) Barrett, Leslie Williams and Rachel Lohrberg; 4 great grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews and a special friend Barbara Wynn. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; her mother Beulah (Evert) Mort; her father James (Stella) Shultz; her brother James “Ted” Shultz and her son in law Charles L. Williams Jr.

Memorial donations can be made to Southern Care Hospice.