Lorene Elizabeth Myers, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother, and matriarch of her family, passed away peacefully at Diversicare in Chanute, on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the age of 103. Born on Jan. 8, 1922, on the family farm in rural Chanute, she was the cherished daughter of Samuel and Lizzie (Fegel) Switzer.
Lorene’s early life was shaped by the rich soil of her upbringing. She attended Prairie Queen country school, completed her high school education, and furthered her skills by attending beauty college in Coffeyville. On May 18, 1943, she married Lawrence “Park” Myers in Lompoc, California, while he served his country. Their union blossomed into a family of ten children: Anthony, Edward, William, David, Bernadette, Michelle, Theresa, Kathy, Robert Dean, and Beverly. Lorene worked at Evelyn’s Beauty Shop before dedicating her life to raising her family.
Known for her nurturing spirit and green thumb, Lorene found immense joy in tending her garden, cultivating homegrown vegetables, and sharing the bounty with her loved ones. Her culinary skills were legendary, as were her beautiful quilts, testaments to her creativity and love. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family.
A devout member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Lorene was an active participant in the St. Patrick’s Altar Society, reflecting her deep faith and commitment to her community.
Lorene was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lawrence “Park” Myers; her son, Robert Dean; daughters, Theresa Myers and Beverly; brothers, Edward, Wilbur, and Loren Switzer; sister, Enid Winder; and her parents, Samuel and Lizzie Switzer.
Her legacy of love and unwavering strength will live on through her surviving children: Tony (Debra) Myers, Ed (Denna) Myers, David (Dinah) Myers, Bernadette Leeds, Michelle West, Kathy (Ben) Schwegman, and Bill (Donna) Myers; 14 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.
Reciting of the Rosary will be held at Countryside Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 22, at 5 p.m., followed by a visitation with the family from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 23, at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.
Memorial contributions in Lorene’s name may be made to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.
