Laurie Saathoff

DIXON – Laurie Saathoff, 59, of Dixon, entered heaven’s gates June 24, 2017, while resting comfortably at Serenity Hospice & Home, surrounded by her loved ones, after her long battle with cancer.

Laurie Saathoff was born March 23, 1958, in Rockford to Maynard and Lucille (Jaeger) Saathoff.

Laurie was a dedicated and hard worker, no matter what the task. Her first job was at Dog-n-Suds as a waitress, where she biked to work from her family farm into Oregon.

Laurie graduated from Oregon High School in 1976 and later received her certified nursing assistant certification from Sauk Valley Community College. She worked at Lee County Nursing Home for several years.

Her most rewarding career began 26 years ago when she started working for Kreider Services. During her time with Kreider, she worked in Eldena, drove a bus and worked at New Main Group Home.

She had a passion for helping and caring for others. Laurie was a recipient of the AAMR Direct Service Professional Award. The awards program stated, “Each day she shares her natural smile, gentle intuitive teaching style and genuine respect and affection with all people…Her presence of caring, respect and belief in the individuals helps each person to believe a little more in their own goodness. She shares these personal gifts freely as she quietly works very hard every day.”

Laurie loved and served the lord; always maintained a positive outlook; brought laughter and light with her when visiting with family and friends; and enjoyed taking care of her animals throughout her life, including chickens, ponies, horses and dogs.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Maynard and Lucille.

She is survived by her daughter Libby (Dustin) Raih; grandson Warrick; brothers Wayne (Bev) Saathoff and Larry; sister Connie, special niece and goddaughter, Nicki Saathoff; and five other nieces and nephews.

The family will greet friends during a visitation from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday at Preston-Schilling Funeral Home, 213 Crawford Ave. in Dixon, followed by her funeral at 6 p.m., with the Rev. Dave Rogula, chaplain with Serenity Hospice & Home, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Serenity Hospice & Home, 1658 state Route 2, Oregon, IL 61061, so her legacy of helping others will continue.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity and laughs without fear of the future.” – Prov. 31:25

Go to prestonschilling.com to send condolences.