Lora E. Dunwald, 90, of Ontario, Wis., passed away on April 22, 2024, at Vernon Memorial Healthcare in Viroqua, Wis.
Born on April 3, 1934, in Vernon County, Wis., to James and Alma (Hatfield) Skarda, she lived a life marked by kindness, devotion to her family, and unwavering faith.
Lora graduated with her future husband, LeRoy Dunwald, and together their journey took them to Waukegan, Ill. They lived in separate men’s and women’s boarding houses. Lora worked for several years at Abbott’s Lab. On June 12, 1954, they traveled back home and were united in holy matrimony at the Dell United Brethren Church in Dell, Wis.
Lora and LeRoy continued living in Waukegan, Ill., for a few years before moving to Kenosha to open their own service station. They were here until retirement in 1985. Lora was happy to move back to the Ontario area. Retirement brought a new shop for LeRoy, and Lora was proud and pleased when their son James moved back to the area to take over the business in 2006. Lora continued to be the cornerstone of her family, guiding them with wisdom and love.
She and her mom loved tending to their flowerbeds and large gardens every spring and summer. Watching and feeding the birds, especially hummingbirds and orioles in and around the flowers brought Lora joy. Lora’s dislike for the cold winters was well-known, as they kept her from the outdoor activities she loved so much. Even on days when she was cooped up inside, she found joy and purpose, knitting, cooking wonderful meals and spending time with her family. Lora’s passage through life was marked by her unwavering positivity and her ability to find happiness in every day.
Grace Community Church of Ontario was more than just a place of worship for Lora; it was a second home where she served as a pillar of strength and compassion. Those who knew Lora would describe her as loving, kind, and faith-filled. Lora was also active for many years with the Viroqua Eagles Auxiliary. She lived her beliefs through her actions, always ready to lend a hand, flash her beautiful smile, or offer a comforting hug.
Lora is survived by her loving children, James (Pamela) Dunwald of rural Cashton, Janice (Marty) Ownbey of South Carolina, and Janet Rothrock of Florida; a son-in-law, Frank Randle of La Crosse; a brother, Loyd (Darlene) Skarda of Kenosha, Wis.; her sisters-in-law, Phyllis of DeSoto, Wis., and Sandy of Hillsboro, Wis.; 10 grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; 19 great- and 10 step-great-grandchildren; one great-great- and one-step-great-great-grandchild; along with many nieces, nephews, and a multitude of dear friends.
Lora was preceded in death by her husband in 2009, LeRoy Dunwald; her precious daughter, June Randle; her parents; her brothers, Jim and Joie Skarda; and a great-granddaughter.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 4, at Grace Community Church of Ontario. Family and friends are invited to the church from 9 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Burial will follow in the Home Cemetery in Ontario, Wis.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Lora’s name to the Grace Community Church of Ontario, Well Youth Ministry, or to St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church- Pavilion Fund, P.O. Box 160024, Boiling Springs, S.C. 29316.
May the Fourth Be with You, Love, Janet!
