Lori Ann Boelkes was born on April 6, 1968, in Madison, Wisconsin, to Thomas and Nancy (Faulhaber) Schmelzer. She graduated from Middleton High School in 1986. On February 7, 2000, her daughter, Amanda, was born. She was the light of Lori’s life. Amanda’s excitement for life was seen and felt by everyone. She had a great love of nature, animals, and the outdoors. Unfortunately, her time on earth was cut tragically short by an unexpected accident when she was only six years old. Lori mourned her sweet daughter for the rest of her days on earth.

After many years apart, Lori was reunited with her high school sweetheart, Ric. They were united in marriage on April 18, 2015. Together they built a beautiful home, life, and family.

Lori was a healer and a helper of people and animals alike. She worked as a veterinary assistant and later started a mobile RV/auto detailing business. Lori enjoyed all things crafting! Her happy place was in the craft room. She could be found quilting, making vinyl creations, scrapbooking, or making something for friends and loved ones. Recently, she learned the art of crocheting and made her dad a beautiful blanket on the first try. Her favorite colors were purple and orange. Lori loved to travel, especially cruises to anywhere sunny and warm. Lori was an avid outdoorswoman. She enjoyed nature, plants, wildlife, and bow hunting. She was very proud of the deer sanctuary that she helped create with Ric at their beautiful property, Horny Acres. Her last deer was her biggest, a nine-point whitetail buck proudly taken with her bow.

After Amanda’s passing, Lori found her purpose in life by helping others. This was a way of healing and giving back to those who helped her on that tragic day. Lori began her life of service as a volunteer firefighter and EMR for 12 years, was a lieutenant on the New Auburn Area Fire Department, and finished on the Warrens Area Fire District. She selflessly served and dedicated much of her time, not only responding to calls but also volunteering on various projects and events.

Lori always rooted for the underdog. She had a special interest in mentoring new recruits, especially woman in the fire/EMR service. She was a wonderful teacher and leader with a self-driven work ethic.