Glenda Lea Laakkonen (nee Petermann), age 73, of Ripon, passed away peacefully on Sunday,
November 13, 2022 at Whispering Pines Nursing Home in Ripon surrounded by her loving
friends. Glenda was born on June 25, 1949, the daughter of Elroy and Norma (Engel)
Petermann. She graduated from Waupun High School, Class of 1968. Glenda married the love of
her life, Robert Richard Laakkonen on July 1969 in Solon Springs, WI. He preceded her in death
on April 14, 2021. Glenda and Bob were active members at the Hillside Assembly Church for
many years.
During her lifetime, Glenda made many beautiful quilts and won awards for them. She loved all
sorts of crafts and really loved making amazing birthday and Christmas cards. There was not an
art she hadn't at least tried. One of her favorite enjoyments was going to rummage sales with
her sisters and mom. Always a fun time! Glenda had a soft heart for animals, especially dogs,
cats, and her Parakeet! She was a kind and loving mother, a wonderful auntie, and a friend to
many.
Glenda is survived by her son, Will (Amie) Laakkonen and special grandson, Freddie Laakkonen
of St. Cloud, MN; sister, Brenda (Lawrence) Wrobel (nee Petermann) of Clermont, FL; two
brothers: Elroy (Kate) Butch of Oshkosh, WI, and Jon (Ruth) Petermann of Independence, MO;
and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. She was preceded in death
by her parents, Elroy and Norma Petermann; husband, Robert Laakkonen; sister, Joyce Seely
(nee Petermann); and brother, Peter Petermann.
A Celebration of life for Glenda will be held at a later date. We will remember her for her
kindness, humor, and laughter. She was truly a kind soul who touched the lives of many and she
will be missed. Divine Passage Funeral Home in Ripon is serving the Laakkonen family during
this difficult time. Divinepassagefunerals.com
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