Cousin Lorraine was a force to be reckoned with. She was the first woman in our family to get a college education, she was one of the first to have a "career" so to speak, more than just a job. My Dad her cousin Thomas was intimidated by her; his entire life. Then, when his parents and her Aunt Connie and Uncle Pete became ill, she was a strong supporter to my Dad when he really wasn't sure what to do to help his parents. She guided him and gave him encouragement. He told me many times how much he really appreciated her help and guidance and love. He hadn't realized she was so approachable and he really appreciated her kindness and love, during such a terrible time. He was insecure, for some reason; he was too worried that his education would hinder them from having things in common. In later years he realized she was a person, just like he was, and that she loved the family as much as he did. He always said that Lorraine and Peter, my uncle and Lorraine's cousin were close because they were both so smart. They were both smart, but he was "street smart" and so gregarious...the cousins loved deeply and strongly. They had large family gatherings with second and third cousins as much as they could when we grew up. That is the basis of all of us cousins being so close now in our mature years.
I am thankful to have been a part of Lorraine's family. She was a strong woman with firm opinions when that was not always welcome and I strive to be a better person because Lorraine showed me the way. Love you Lorraine.
Love to Christine, Karl and her family and friends who lost a wonderful, tough, loving Mom. Sending you all my love. Kelly