ESTHERVILLE — Lori Gilbert, 76, of Estherville, passed away Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Avera Holy Family Hospital, leaving behind a life marked by service, compassion and a deep love for her family and community.
Visitation will be held from 1 to 2 p.m. Wednesday, August 5, at Henry-Olson Funeral Chapel in Estherville.
Funeral services will begin at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral chapel.
Lori, whose full name was Lorraine Irene Gilbert, was born July 4, 1950, in Estherville to Leonard and Irene (Wilson) Torkelson.
She graduated from Spencer High School before marrying James Tindall. The couple welcomed two daughters, Krista and Jessica, before later divorcing. On January 23, 1998, Lori married Steven Gilbert, with whom she shared many happy years.
Throughout her working life, Lori held positions at a variety store, liquor store and hardware store, but her favorite career was with the Head Start program. She found genuine joy in working with young children, and her caring nature made a lasting impression on the families she served.
Service to others extended well beyond her career. Lori volunteered as an emergency medical technician with the Graettinger Ambulance and also served her community as a first responder and firefighter in Ringsted. Whether responding to emergencies or helping neighbors in need, she answered the call with dedication and compassion.
Away from work and volunteering, Lori delighted in life’s simple pleasures. She loved searching garage sales and secondhand stores for hidden treasures, camping, fishing, reading, needlepoint and crocheting. She was also known for hosting lively Tupperware parties and decorating her home for every season and holiday.
Nothing brought Lori greater happiness than spending time with her grandchildren. Her family was the center of her life, and she treasured every opportunity to create lasting memories with them.
She is survived by her husband, Steven Gilbert; her daughters, Krista (Reed) Stenersen of Forest City and Jessica Tindall of Aspinwall; grandchildren Brett, Tanner, Madison, Samantha, Cassidy, MacKenzie, Allison and Ethan; great-grandson Marshall; and many other relatives and friends.
Lori was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Vern Torkelson.
Henry-Olson Funeral Home is handling arrangements. To read more and see the full obituary, please click here.
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