Lorraine Hergenreder

Lorraine Ann Hergenreder (Stoss), age 89, of Caro, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025, at her son’s home in Kawkawlin, surrounded and comforted by her family, both in person and virtually. Lorraine lived a life rooted in faith, love, and service, and she now rests in the peace and promise of eternal life through her Lord and Savior.

Lorraine was born on October 13, 1936, to Stanley and Mary (Warda) Stoss. She was raised on a farm, where she learned the values of hard work, strength, and perseverance that stayed with her throughout her life. Lorraine graduated from Caro High School with the class of 1954. On June 2,1956, she was united in marriage to the love of her life, James Hergenreder. Together, Lorraine and Jim shared sixty-six happy years of marriage, building a home and life centered on family, faith, and devotion to one another. Lorraine enjoyed and was always very grateful for all the special family gatherings for holidays and special events; loving to watch her family grow.

Lorraine and Jim loved the family and life they built together. They enjoyed traveling through many states and making memories along the way. Their wedding song, “Save the Last Dance for Me,” always held a special place in their hearts. Summers were often spent picking blueberries together at their cherished blueberry patch. Lorraine also enjoyed playing cards with special friends, Ray and Ceal, who preceded her in death.

Lorraine was a lifelong and faithful member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Caro. Her faith guided every season of her life. She especially loved being part of the quilters’ group and the bell choir, finding joy and fellowship in serving her church community.

Lorraine was employed for many years at the Caro Center, where she worked first as a seamstress and then as a Certified Nursing Attendant, providing compassionate and dignified care to those entrusted to her. She was a very talented and skilled seamstress, sharing her gift both professionally and personally. Lorraine generously served her community as a 4H Leader and judge at the county fair, volunteered at the Bethesda Thrift Shop, and faithfully gave her time wherever she was needed. Her faith also led her on a mission trip to Mexico. In addition, she served her community as Treasurer of Wells Township for eight years.

Lorraine was a strong, hardworking woman with a gracious spirit and a warm presence. She loved baking cookies, listening to polka music, and sharing her beautiful smile with everyone she met. She was witty and funny, a wonderful listener, and someone people naturally felt comfortable talking with. Lorraine was courageous, generous, and deeply kind. And yet, despite her kindness, when Lorraine thought you might be up to no good, she was known to give the unmistakable crooked finger of disapproval, a gentle but clear reminder to straighten up and do the right thing. She was a loving mother and grandmother who never hesitated to stand up for what was right.

In her later years, Lorraine remained strong and determined, always striving to stay busy, work hard, do her exercises, and be the best she could be. She enjoyed listening to audiobooks, reading daily devotions and her prayer book, and spending time with the dogs. She especially cherished chatting for hours with her caregiver Patty, whose companionship and care meant so much to her. The family extends special thanks to Patty and to all of Lorraine’s loving caregivers and friends, including but not limited to Ann, Karen, Grace, Denise, and Madison.

Lorraine was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her three children, Cindy (James) Hitchcock of Columbiaville, Lee (Bonnie) Hergenreder of Caro, and Dan (Maureen) Hergenreder of Kawkawlin; five grandchildren, Becky (Paul) Tiret, Ryan (Amy) Thompson, Dan (Jacqueline) Hergenreder, Amanda Hergenreder, and Cody Hergenreder; six great-grandchildren, Liam, Owen, Avery, Ezra, Ian, and Dan III; and one sister, Florence Christiansen of Oregon; along with many extended family members and dear friends. Lorraine was preceded in death by her parents, Stanley and Mary Stoss; her beloved husband, James Hergenreder; her son, Dale Hergenreder; brother-in-law, Dale Christiansen. She now joins them in eternal peace.

Lorraine’s funeral service will be on Monday, December 22, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Caro with Rev. Richard L. Boshoven officiating. A meal will follow and then burial will take place at East Dayton Cemetery. The family will be present to receive visitors on Sunday, December 21, 2025 from 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Ransford Funeral Home in Caro and again on Monday at church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of her service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to St. Paul Lutheran Church in Caro.

The family also wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Residential Hospice, nurse Lisa, Taylor, and Chaplain Dan for their compassionate care, comfort, and support provided to Lorraine and her family during her final days.

Lorraine will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her faith, strength, kindness, and unwavering love for her family.