Beloved Community Figure Laurie Staab Passes Away at 73

Laurie Staab, a cherished wife, mother, and community leader, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025, at the age of 73. Surrounded by family, she left behind a legacy of faith, love, and creativity. Born on August 8, 1952, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Reverend Harold K. Emerson and Joy N. Emerson (née Flegel), Laurie dedicated her life to serving others.

Her marriage to high school sweetheart, Gary L. Staab, began on July 29, 1972, marking the start of a devoted partnership that lasted over five decades. Together, they built a home filled with love and support, raising three daughters: Lisa (Staab) Vega, Kimberly (Staab) Schultz and her husband Tim Schultz, and Emily Staab and her husband Jim McMasters. Laurie was also a proud grandmother to Alexander Vega, Justin Vega, and Lucas Schultz, and a cherished great-grandmother to Calum Vega.

A Life of Service and Creativity

Laurie’s professional journey showcased her creativity and dedication. She thrived in the advertising industry, where her keen eye for detail and ability to bring ideas to life inspired her colleagues and built strong professional relationships. Beyond her career, Laurie’s passion for music was evident as she served as the church organist and taught piano and organ lessons. She embraced music not just as a profession but as a joyful expression of her spirit.

Her commitment to faith was unwavering. A devoted servant of Christ, Laurie lived each day as a testament to her beliefs. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, often engaging in activities such as playing Scrabble, working on jigsaw puzzles, and spontaneously singing hymns. These moments reflected her thoughtful nature and brought comfort to those around her.

Celebrating a Legacy of Love

Laurie’s warmth and kindness extended beyond her immediate family. She is survived by her siblings: Marc and Lynn Emerson, Joel and Jeanne Emerson, Kari and Bob Lewis, Richard Emerson, and Mary Maney, as well as many beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. All of these individuals experienced her unique ability to make people feel seen, heard, and loved.

A memorial service is scheduled for September 18, 2025, at 14:00 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 held at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church in Waukesha, Wisconsin, with the date to be determined. Laurie’s final resting place will be at the West Bend cemetery in Wisconsin.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org. Laurie’s impact on the lives she touched will be fondly remembered, as her faith, love, and legacy continue to inspire those who knew her.