Lorraine Rhinehart (nee Althoff) 1936-2013

Lorraine Grace Althoff Stevens Hill Rhinehart was born in Stillwater, Minnesota.  She is preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Enid Althoff, and her husband, John Rhinehart, Jr.  She is survived by brothers Donald Althoff (Arlene) and Charles Althoff, sisters Judith Blinn (Jerry), Valerie DeLong, and Patricia Pikala (David), sons John Stevens (Lillie) and Kevin Stevens (Maria) daughter Sara Bratsch (Roger), and grandchildren Marcus Bratsch, Katie Bratsch, Devon and David Stevens.

My mother had a long career in nursing.  One of the nurses who cared for her late in her life told me that she and other nurses regarded her as a mentor.  She had many friends who cared for her deeply.

My mother gave me many gifts.  As a child, she taught me about survival.  She taught me how to tell time and how to call to learn about bus schedules.  Later in life, my mother taught me about faith by her example.  She had more reason to complain that almost anyone I have ever known, but she complained less than almost anyone I have ever known.  She showed me that life can have joy and beauty even when it is difficult and painful.