Lorna May Saupe

MIDDLETON - Lorna May Saupe, age 95, died on Jan. 24, 2024, at Attic Angel Place under the care of Agrace Hospice. Lorna was born on Dec. 16, 1928, to Walter and Luella (Hensch) Kruse in Sheldon, Iowa.  She and her brother, Merlyn, grew up near Sheldon on the family farm. Lorna attended country school through 8th grade and went on to Sheldon High School and then Sheldon Junior College.  By that time she had caught the eye of a farmer’s son, who invited her to the Armistice Day dance.  In 1952, Lorna married that man, and she and William E. “Bill” Saupe began their life together.  They were married for 60 years until Bill’s death in 2013.

Lorna graduated from Iowa State College in 1951 and taught Home Economics for five years. She was a homemaker for 60 years; taking good care of her family was her true vocation and calling. Lorna was a dedicated volunteer in her children’s activities at school, church and Scouting. Acts of service was her love language.  

Travel and exploration were important to the Saupe family.  Weekends were often spent at state parks, hiking and having picnics. They made the 400-mile pilgrimage back to Sheldon several times a year to visit family and friends.  Each summer they went on a camping trip to a different part of the country, coinciding with the location of Bill’s professional meetings. Their ultimate adventure was the two years they lived in Brazil and explored South America while Bill taught at a university there.  

When their nest emptied, Lorna and Bill shared several hobbies: gardening, travelling, hiking, attending cultural and educational programs, and volunteering. After Bill’s retirement, parts of each winter were spent in Arizona. Their favorite activity by far was spending time with their grandchildren. Lorna shared her fondness of baking, sewing, and gardening with them.

After Bill died, Lorna moved to Attic Angel Place, where she resided until her death. In those 10 years, Lorna formed new friendships and was blessed to receive the care and kindness of staff.  She was well known as the “walking lady” who never missed her exercise class or a worship service.  Lorna’s faith in Jesus Christ was important to her. For 58 years, Asbury Church was her spiritual home. Her family is comforted with the assurance that Lorna is now in her eternal home.

Lorna is survived by two daughters, Rebecca (David) Luther and Barbara (Barry) Hein; daughter-in-law, Nancy Sweitzer; seven grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Her son, Kurt W. Saupe, died in 2012.

A Celebration of Life service will be held in the ATTIC ANGEL COMMUNITY ROOM, 8301 Old Sauk Road, Middleton, at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, with the Rev. Harold Zimmick presiding. Lorna’s cremated remains will be buried in the Saupe family plot in Sheldon, Iowa at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to Asbury Church at 6101 University Ave., Madison, WI 53705, or Attic Angel Community Employee Appreciation Fund at 8301 Old Sauk Rd., Middleton, WI 53562.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com or mailed to P.O. Box 731 St. Maries, ID 83861.

Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation Care

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761