Van Alstine, Lori A.

Lori Ann (Hedtke) Van Alstine, of New London, age 50, was surrounded by her family as she passed away peacefully in her home on Saturday, August 13, 2011, following a courageous three-year battle with Multicentric Reticulohistiocytosis (MRH) and Inflammatory Breast Cancer. Throughout her life, Lori possessed a strong faith in Jesus Christ, which guided her throughout her illness. Lori was born on February 17, 1961, at the Borchardt Hospital, New London, the second child and only daughter to Daniel K. and Marlene A. Hedtke, of New London. Lori, a spirited “bulldog,” attended New London Senior High School, where she met her high school sweetheart, Joseph D. Van Alstine. Both Lori and Joe graduated from New London in 1979. Lori and Joe were joined in marriage on July 16, 1983. Upon marriage, the newlyweds moved down to Killeen, Texas, where Joe was stationed in the United States Army. Following a two-year stint in Texas, the couple was relocated to Germany, where Joe finished his Army tour. After two years in Germany, the two returned home, where they settled back in the Midwest. In 1988, Lori and Joe welcomed their first child, Abby Jolene. After two years of living in Chicago, the new parents returned back to their roots, settling in New London, where they have been ever since. In 1991, Samuel Joseph was welcomed into Lori and Joe’s growing brood, the first and only son of their family. Anna Lee joined the family in 1996, completing the family of five. Lori was known for her bright smile and positive outlook throughout her entire life, and she engaged in many activities that brought out that smile. Decorating her home for the changing seasons was one of Lori’s favorite hobbies, as was beautifying her home through the grace of her green thumb. Every spring, Lori looked forward to selecting new flowers for her flower beds, baskets and gardens. Her love for gardening also stems from her love of the outdoors, where she enjoyed listening to the sounds of the birds and nature around her. Making crafts, browsing craft and antique fairs and shops was yet another hobby Lori enjoyed with her friends and family. Lori treasured moments with her friends, who always provided her with many laughs throughout her life. In her spare time, Lori was often found writing poetry and songs, a pastime that provided her with much comfort. More than anything, Lori loved spending time with her family and raising her three children. Whether she was sitting around a campfire, singing and dancing to her favorite songs, or relaxing on the couch with her family and loyal pets, Jack, Hank and Lily, Lori enjoyed every moment of life. She was often found taste-testing Joe’s latest and greatest recipes, and competing with her children in a game of Scrabble or Yahtzee around the kitchen table. Her bright smile and spunky disposition will be missed greatly by all. Lori is survived by her husband of 28 years, Joe; her children, Abby Van Alstine, Mani-towoc, Sam Van Alstine, New London, Anna Van Alstine, New London; father, Daniel Hedtke, New London; mother, Marlene Hedtke, New London; brother, Brian (Colleen) Hedtke, Knoxville, Tenn.; brother Al (Theresa) Hed-tke, New London; father-in-law, Pete (Jan) Van Alstine, New London; sister-in-law Kathy (David) Derfus, Neenah; sister-in-law, Kelly Van Alstine, Hortonville; sister-in-law, Christine Charlson, Middleton; brother-in-law, Jim Miller, New London; goddaughter Hannah Schertz, New London; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Lori has touched many lives and will be greatly missed. Lori was preceded in death by mother-in-law, Joan Van Alstine; and brother-in-law, Pat Van Alstine.The funeral service for Lori will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 18, 2011, at Emanuel Lutheran Church, 200 E. Quincy Street, New London, with Rev. Brian Hennig officiating. Family and friends called at Cline & Hanson Funeral Home Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., and again directly at church on Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.