Laurel R. Rea

Laurel R. Rea

June 3, 1929 – October 11, 2018

Laurel R. Rea was born on June 3, 1929 in Tracy, Minnesota, and grew up on the family farm south of town. She was baptized and confirmed in the Tracy Presbyterian Church and graduated from Tracy High School on June 5, 1947. She married Duwayne “Razz” Rea on June 27, 1947; they were married for 47 years.

Laurel worked as a cashier in Tracy’s first “super market” and later moved to Fairmont, Minnesota when Razz joined the Al Menke Orchestra in 1949. In 1956 they moved to Omaha when Razz joined the Pat Hamilton Trio and Laurel worked part time in several capacities: as an Avon Lady, an assistant Sunday school teacher, and a seamstress. They had two children, Neal (1960) and Eric (1962). Laurel began a career with Northwestern Bell/US West in 1971 and retired in 1992.

Laurel became a member of the Catholic faith in 1976 at Holy Name Catholic Church. Over the years her involvement at Holy Name included numerous volunteer roles including as president of the Women’s Confraternity; serving as lector and EME, working in the rectory office and the development/alumni office; helping with bingo, outreach program, and the Humble Jumble store.

Laurel completed nine semesters of basic and advanced computer science and electronics studies (with honors) after age 50. Her other hobbies included stock car racing, crocheting, gardening, and word puzzles.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Razz; son, Neal, parents, Clyde and Fae Robbins; and brother, Robert.  She is survived by son, Eric Rea (Mary); granddaughter, Jennifer Bennett (Alvin); three great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Friday, October 12th from 5pm to 7pm at Holy Name Catholic Church, 2901 Fontenelle Blvd., followed by VIGIL SERVICE at 7pm.  MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL: Saturday, October 13th at 10am at Holy Name Catholic Church.  Interment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.  Memorials are suggested to Holy Name Catholic Church.