Lorene Joy Gerken, age 55, of Rockford, IL, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 11, 2021 at her home. Daughter of the late May Joyce Johnson, Lori was born on August 25, 1965, in Chicago, IL. Lori was an animal lover who would take in and care for any animal in need (except for snakes). She enjoyed walking everywhere she went, and especially loved walking in the woods. Lori liked camping, cooking, gardening, and barbecuing. She was a member of Hope Lutheran Church in Twin Lakes, WI. Lori's family was the most precious thing in her life—she was close with her siblings, loved her three children (especially Shawn), and adored her grandchildren.

Lori is survived by her children, Lyndsey Tolliver, Jamie Leigh (Aaron Brandon), and Shawn McGregor; grandchildren, Kayla and Emily Sheryl and Markus Leigh; siblings, Patti Holbek (Joe Martin), Allen (Rosa) Gerken, Penny Trongeau, and Carol Threadgill; her significant other, Gale Heckelsmiller; and her beloved animal companions, Bella the chihuahua and Tig the cat. She was preceded in death by her mother, May Johnson, and her brother, Kenneth Johnson.

A private memorial service will be held by the family at a later date. Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Home and Crematory of Twin Lakes, WI is assisting Lori's family.