Lois Jean Ramsdell

Lois Jean Ramsdell, age 92, passed away peacefully at her home on November 13, 2024, surrounded by her family. Lois was born on November 24, 1931, to the late John Anchor Ingraman Larson and his wife Geneva (Rudd). On October 11, 1952, Lois married James Willis Ramsdell in Minneapolis. At the time of his passing in 2009, Lois and Jim had been married for 56 years.

Growing up in the Twin Cities (MN) area, Lois experienced The Great Depression and World War II. She often talked about mandatory “black outs” during the war. She referred to herself as a “St. Paul girl” but soon would become a loyal Wisconsinite. Even though she grew up in Minnesota, Lois was an avid Packers fan, beginning in the Lombardi years. A great cook, Lois enjoyed preparing Sunday dinners for her family. She also was very musically inclined and loved playing the piano, often playing songs by ear. 

Lois was extremely independent, living on her own over the years after Jim’s passing. Just shy of 93 years old, she still drove, ran errands and shopped on her own up until her illness prevented it. She had a strong faith in God, accepting Christ as her personal savior at a young age. Her faith gave her the confidence that once she passed, she would be residing with God in heaven. Along with her religious beliefs, she also had strong political beliefs. She was so proud to be able to vote in the last election, even though her illness kept her housebound. 

Lois’s charm and easygoing personality had a positive effect on those she met. She was accepting of all, always had a kind word for everyone and was loved by all. 

Lois is survived by her children: Joline (Ken Reed) Gibeault, Oshkosh, Jeanine (Ben) LaBerge, Eau Claire, Michael Ramsdell, Neenah, Gregory Ramsdell and David (Arlene Danque) Ramsdell, both of Appleton, daughter-in-law Dawn Wolff, Oshkosh; 12 grandchildren: Melissa, Brianne, Nicole, Kristin, Kari, Amy, Greg, Chris, Alex, Bailey, Angel and Sofie; and 13 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Carole Simpson Johnson, and numerous other extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her husband Jim; son Bradley; son-in-law Jack Gibeault; parents John and Geneva; sister Lucile (Ted) Jess; and brothers-in-law Dave Simpson and Ken Johnson..

A funeral service will take place Friday November 22, 2024, at 11:30am at Wichmann Funeral Home-Tri County Chapel, 1592 S Oneida St, Appleton. Friends and family may gather at the funeral home from 10:00am until the service begins. Lois will be laid to rest at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis, MN.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at Compassus Hospice for their exceptional care over the past month