Laurel S. Peters

It is with heavy hearts and so much love that we share the passing of Laurel S. Peters, beloved mom, sister, aunt and friend. Laurel passed away on April 3, 2025, at St. Monica’s Memory Care in Racine, WI where she resided with their loving care since 2023. Laurel was born in Cleveland, OH to the late Ethel [Burke] and Clyde Vortman in 1937 and was raised outside of Detroit, MI with brothers Jeffrey and Roger.

Laurel attended high school in Grosse Pointe, Michigan and graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University. She then taught high school in Detroit where she met her future husband, Lyle. They were married in 1962 and went on to have a loving marriage for 61 years.

Laurel was predeceased by her husband Lyle who took his last breath on July 11, 2023. She is survived by her eldest son Layne Peters [Kate Czajka], daughter Lisa Peters-Beumer [Michael Beumer], and son Lindsay Peters [Suzanne Peters], as well as four grandchildren, Owen, Colin, Maddux and Lennon. She is also survived by her brothers Jeffrey Vortman [Barbara] and Roger Vortman [Wendy Wyckoff] and numerous nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

During her 55+ years living in Racine, Laurel had a long teaching career with the Racine Unified School District and faithfully attended St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. Laurel was an educator both inside and outside the classroom. She cared deeply about teaching and learning, as well as the many students she taught over the years.

Laurel enjoyed bowling, playing cards, ice cream, and spending time with both family and dear friends. She often spent time on weekends baking, filling the house with aromas of freshly baked bread. She could also be found tending the garden with Lyle during the summer months—a garden that filled the dinner table throughout much of the year. She was our “go to” for tech advice and knew all the latest digital devices. Laurel was an impeccable seamstress, and she loved taking photographs of flowers. She lived with dementia for the last several years of her life and was delightful company until the very end of her days.

She shared joy with friends and family and through her many interests and talents. More than anything, she taught us the importance of family, love, sacrifice, learning and independence. Mom, we are so very grateful for our time with you and will miss you forever.

A Memorial Service celebrating Laurel’s life will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday May 10, 2025, at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, 4701 Erie St., with Rev. Lars Skoglund officiating. Relatives and friends are welcome to meet with the family for Visitation on Saturday at 10:00 am until time of service at the church. In lieu of flowers please make memorial donations to St. Monica’s Senior Living Memory Care in honor of Laurel Peters