Our courageously strong wife, and mother, Lynette Cheri Loecher, 73, peacefully passed away on Thursday, Jan. 24, 2019. Her wish to die at home, where her heart has always been, was granted as her husband, children and her dog, Sadie, were by her side when she took her last pain-filled breath here on Earth.

Lynette was born on Jan. 20, 1946, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Vickie (Borgeson) Eastburn and Russell Eastburn. Never one to miss a party, Lynette gathered her last ounce of strength to celebrate one more birthday. Without doubt, God granted this miracle as her family and friends gathered to honor her beautiful and generous heart. She radiated warmth and beauty all day long.

Lynette graduated from Austin High in 1964. She was a true and loyal friend who enjoyed making so many cherished memories with her classmates. She loved to reflect back on the numerous lunch dates, coffee chats, girl’s trips and laughter shared through the years.

On June 27, 1964, Lynette married the love of her life, Gary W. Loecher, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Austin, Minnesota. Although their almost 55-year marriage wasn’t always an easy journey, Lynette’s incredible strength, steadfast resilience and life motto “living on a prayer” saw them through. The best love is a lifelong love that sweetens the joys, softens the hurts and strengthens two hearts as they travel the scenic route together along the way.

Lynette’s greatest achievement in life was becoming a mother. She believed in her children wholeheartedly and was a beacon of love, acceptance and encouragement. She gave us so much and asked for so little in return. She was always there for us, teaching us, listening to us, helping and forgiving us, and always paving the way for us. She taught us that whenever making decisions in life, always choose family first and the answers will come easily. Her legacy has left an enormous impact on our lives. Farewell, our sweet Mama. We will continue to live our lives with grace, humbleness and love just as you taught us.

Lynette especially enjoyed cheering on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren during their events. She thought nothing of traveling in treacherous conditions to watch a hockey game, dance competition or basketball tournament. She always summoned the strength to attend, even when the decline in her health made it extremely difficult. She knew how important it was to have family support and she wanted her kids to know Grandma was their No. 1 fan. Because of her love and guidance, one day these children can only hope they will be paid the highest compliment of, “You’re just like your Grandma!”

Lynette always found great joy in doing for others. For 45 years she served cups of coffee and plates of food with her radiant smile, boundless energy and infectious laugh. She started her waitressing career at the Oak Grill when she was 16 years old and finally hung up her Jerry’s Other Place apron in 2008. When the kids were little, Lynette worked for one year at the Girls Villa as a counselor helping troubled teenage girls find their way in life. Lynette made some of her best memories during her working years not only with her customers, but also with her co-workers, who became lifelong friends. She always said her job wasn’t really “work” because she loved what she did.

Lynette loved to make sure life was fun. She was a genuine friend who opened her heart and her home to so many — always loving, never judging. She was the mom every one of her children’s friends wished they had. She was always there for you, even if you didn’t deserve it. She loved Mulligan Stew parties, Friday Fun Nights, Halloween and costumes, traveling and vacations at the lake, horses and the Kentucky Derby, books and an ice-cold glass of wine. Because of her example, we are fully aware that life is nothing without sharing laughter with friends, showing love through smiles and hugs, and living each day as if it were our last. The stories Lynette’s friends share will keep her spirit alive for years to come. Friends and family meant everything to Lynette.

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Mayo Hospice Care, who allowed us the privilege of walking alongside our wife, mother, sister and friend during this fragile and beautifully profound time in her life. Her unwavering strength through this journey was equally as humbling as it was inspiring. Mom proved to be a warrior throughout her 11 days at home, surprising everyone with a twinkle in her eye, a magnificent smile and mischievous rise of her eyebrows.

Lynette is survived by her husband, Gary; her sons and daughters-in-law, Chad and Kim of Northfield, Minnesota, and Cory and Sherri of Austin; her daughter and son-in-law, Marni and Danny of Austin; her grandchildren, Hannah, Griffin, Ashley, Kali (Curtis), Jaxson, Brandi (Taylor) and Garett; her great-grandchildren, Ava, Sophie, Callen, Adalyn, Kinsleigh and Thielen; her beloved sisters, Monica and Kristy (Russ); her brother, Rusty (Marie); sisters-in-law, Sandra (Mike) and Barb (David); as well as many preciously-adored nieces, nephews, in-laws and friends who became family. She was preceded in death by her parents; her in-laws, Herb and Murl; her sister-in-law, Lana; and her niece, Maggie.

Lynette chose to donate her body to Mayo Clinic Medical Science Research. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date.

There will be a celebration of life to honor Lynette from 1-5 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 10, 2019, at the Eagles Club in Austin. We look forward to celebrating the incredibly special woman she was.