In Memory of

Lori

Annette

Decker

Obituary for Lori Annette Decker

Lori Annette Decker, a devoted soul, peacefully departed on December 26, 2023, after bravely confronting and enduring a prolonged battle with complex health issues.

Services for Lori will take place at Clark Family Funeral Chapel on Saturday, December 30, 2023 at 11 a.m. with Benjamen Evers officiating. A luncheon will follow in the Reflections Reception Center. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the time of the service.

Born in Berea, Ohio, on July 16th, 1959, to Warren and Pauline Decker, Lori's life was a testament to unwavering faith, love, and selfless service.

Lori graduated from Chippewa Hills High School in Remus, Michigan, where she distinguished herself as a versatile musician actively engaged in choir, orchestra, and theater. Lori, alongside her life partner James Stradtner, embarked on the journey of parenthood in Central Michigan. They nurtured two daughters together, fostering a home of love and care.
Lori's profound commitment to her faith was evident in her life's purpose – to exemplify God’s love. Her generous nature shone through as she extended exceptional assistance, offering childcare services, crafting delicious meals, her cinnamon rolls, and actively engaging in music and children's ministries at her local church. Lori's dedication to positively influencing the lives of others served as an enduring source of inspiration. Her favorite song, "Great is Thy Faithfulness," expresses a profound and unwavering faith in God's constancy, mercy, and love, acknowledging His unchanging nature and the continual renewal of His mercies and blessings. She strived to share this message through her giving and life experiences.

Throughout her challenging journey, Lori faced adversity with remarkable strength, resilience, and a spirited sass that left an indelible mark on all fortunate to know her.

Beyond her role as a dedicated mother and spiritual beacon, Lori reveled in various hobbies. A skilled organizer and planner, she cultivated flourishing gardens and indulged in arts and crafts like sewing and crocheting. She enjoyed the camaraderie of board and card games and solving puzzles. Lori also showcased her passion for the arts through community productions like The Sound of Music.

Affectionately known as Nana, Lori's legacy lives on in the hearts of her loved ones. She imparted essential life skills, like tying shoelaces, and encouraged her grandchildren – Jasmine, Maxwell, Naomi, and Lyric – to embrace their authentic selves. A fervent advocate for social justice, Lori ardently believed in the equality of all and the universal right to experience true love and kindness.

Lori now rests in glory, reunited with her father, Warren Decker, her sister, Judy (Decker) Jones, and nephews, Andrew Decker and Dakota Decker. Cherished memories endure in the lives of her mother, Pauline Decker; her daughter, Annie (Clarence) Hightower; her daughter, Audra Stradtner; and her surviving siblings, Sharon (Richard) Panozzo, Larry (Debra) Decker, Kathy (Mike) Evans, Brad (Tami) Decker, Mark (Jill) Decker, and Kimber (Kathy) Decker. Lori is fondly remembered by several nieces, nephews, and cherished cousins, for whom she provided support and love. Lori was also cherished by several friends whom she always regarded as family.

Lori's family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated health professionals and compassionate community members who played pivotal roles in enhancing her quality of life throughout the years. In her selfless spirit, Lori requested that those who feel moved to do so consider contributing to her memory, mainly supporting the Mecosta County Commission on Aging. This organization provided invaluable assistance, enabling Lori and others to uphold their dignity amid life's challenges. Your generosity in honoring Lori's wishes will leave a lasting impact, reflecting the shared commitment to caring for and uplifting those in need.