Lori Arena-Voute

On Monday, April 13, 2015, Lori Arena-Voute, age 47, passed away in Woodbury, MN. Lori grew up in Racine, attended William Horlick High School and completed her Bachelors of Science Degree in Social Work at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1991.

Lori was a staunch advocate for the vulnerable, the disadvantaged and those who could not speak for themselves. Lori worked in her profession in Wisconsin, Alabama and Minnesota.

Lori’s patriotic fervor was spurred by her pride in her grandfathers’ accomplishments in World War II. An evolving interest in veterans’ affairs soon included Korea’s “Frozen Chosin”. Today’s Gulf War soldiers have received care packages organized by Lori and other beneficiaries of her personal touch include Veteran’s Affairs hospital patients.

Lori had an un-abounded love for animals, domestic and wild. All of her personal adopted pets came from pet rescues rejected by most, because they were abused or disfigured. Due to love and patience, these animals found a secure and peaceful home. Other commitments extended to humane foundations such as the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee.

Lori’s artistic talents were visionary across a variety of mediums, from canvas and oils to dichroic glass and her own unique designs for jewelry. Lori brought her wares from Woodbury, MN to Racine annually, participating in the Lakefront Festival of the Arts and the Starving Artist Fair.

Lori’s light and love will be deeply missed by all of those whom she touched. She was truly our “Sunshine Girl”. Survivors include her husband B.J. Voute, mother Kathy Arena, brother Duane Arena, as well as aunts, uncles, cousins and in-laws. Lori is preceded in death by her father, Duane Arena, her uncle, Ed Petras, and her grandparents.

On Wednesday, April 22, 2015, relatives and friends are invited to the visitation at Maresh-Meredith Funeral Home in Racine, WI from 10AM-11AM, to be followed by services at 11AM, conducted by Rev. Mark Doidge, at the funeral Home. Following the service, internment will take place at Graceland Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to HALO Organization (2000 Dekoven Ave., Racine, WI, 53403), ASPCA (P.O. Box 96929, Washington, D.C.) and the Elephant Sanctuary in TN (27 E. Main Street, Hohenwald, TN. 38462).