Lora Kay Violette

Lora “Lori” Kay Violette, age 70, of Bloomington, MN, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Hastings Senior Health and Living.

Lori was born on November 15, 1954, in Austin, Minnesota, to Marilyn Wolff and Gary Lende. She was raised in Minneapolis by her mother and Thomas Brown, alongside her brothers Zac and Chris. Lori graduated from Washburn High School, where she was a cheerleader and a proud member of the Millermates.

Lori loved golfing, fishing, skiing, and relaxing in the places she loved. She was happiest when surrounded by loved ones—laughing, sharing stories, and making people smile. Her warmth, sense of humor, and easygoing nature drew others to her, and she made friends wherever she went.

She was first married to Martin Christenson, and together they had a son, Eric. Later, Lori met and married the love of her life, Thomas Violette. Their bond was instant and strong, and Lori often said Tom was the highlight of her life. They cherished their time together boating, spending time up north, and simply enjoying each other’s company. When Tom became ill a few years after they married, Lori cared for him with unwavering love and strength until the very end.

Lori worked for many years as an administrative assistant at Toro, where she was admired for her positivity, kindness, and compassion. These traits extended far beyond her professional life—it defined who she was every day. Lori deeply loved her family, especially cherishing the time she spent with her grandson, Josh. Attending Josh and his wife Hailey’s wedding was one of Lori's final and most treasured memories before her own health declined.

Lori is survived by her son, Eric Christenson; grandson, Josh Christenson (Hailey); mother, Marilyn Westman (Ken); brothers, Zac Brown and Chris Brown (Pam); nieces, Shannon, Alex, Emme, and Danielle; Jim (Cindy), Allen, and Janine Violette; and many other relatives and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas Violette.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at Starkson Family - Anderson Chapel, 14850 Garrett Ave., Apple Valley, with a reception to follow at 6:00 p.m. at the VFW Richfield Post 5555, 6715 Lake Shore Drive South, Richfield, MN 55423.