Devoted Wife and Mother Laurie Staab Passes Away at 73

Laurie Staab, a cherished wife and mother, passed away peacefully at the age of 73 on September 13, 2025. Her husband, Gary L. Staab, was by her side during her final moments. Laurie’s life, filled with love and service, was a testament to her strong faith in Jesus Christ.

Born on August 8, 1952, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Laurie was the daughter of Reverend Harold K. Emerson and Joy N. Emerson (née Flegel). From an early age, she cultivated a life characterized by creativity, compassion, and unwavering faith. Her marriage to Gary on July 29, 1972, marked the beginning of a devoted partnership that lasted over five decades.

Career and Contributions

In her professional life, Laurie excelled in the advertising industry, where her creativity and attention to detail earned her respect and admiration. She forged meaningful connections with colleagues and clients alike, often inspiring others with her ability to transform ideas into reality.

Laurie was also a talented musician, serving as the church organist and teaching piano and organ lessons. Her passion for music provided joy not only to herself but also to those around her. At home, she was a loving mother to her daughters, Lisa (Staab) Vega, Kimberly (Staab) Schultz, and Emily Staab. She took pride in her role as a grandmother to Alexander Vega, Justin Vega, and Lucas Schultz, and as a great-grandmother to Calum Vega.

Legacy and Memorial Services

Laurie’s legacy extends beyond her family to her siblings: Marc Emerson, Lynn Emerson, Joel Emerson, Jeanne Emerson, Kari Lewis, Bob Lewis, Richard Emerson, and Mary Maney, along with many beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. Known for her kindness and warmth, she had a unique ability to make others feel valued and loved.

In her leisure time, Laurie found joy in simple pleasures such as playing Scrabble and completing jigsaw puzzles, activities that reflected her thoughtful nature. Her spontaneous hymn singing brought joy to those around her and was a true expression of her vibrant spirit.

A memorial service is scheduled for September 18, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Jamestown, North Dakota. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Laurie’s life and the eternal hope she cherished in Christ. A second memorial service will be organized at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Waukesha, Wisconsin, with the date to be determined. Laurie will be laid to rest in the cemetery of West Bend, Wisconsin.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org. Laurie Staab will be dearly missed, but her faith, love, and legacy will continue to resonate in the lives she touched.