It is with honor and grace that we remember the life of Lorraine Anna (Schwamb) Schilter, who entered into peace on June 25, 2009. She was 85 years old. Timelessly beautiful and cheerfully spunky, her smile and wink were the essence of her personality.
When asked what brought her solace during her final days, she responded "my grandchildren." We are a testament to her life and are proud to be so.
Born on September 12, 1923, Lorraine grew up in Hartford with her twelve siblings. She worked at Badger Meter for nine years, where she met her husband of 40 years, Richard Schilter. They were married on May 3, 1969. After their marriage, Lorraine moved in with Richard and his five children, ranging from age four to sixteen. The family lived in the town of Wayne, near Allenton. With her gentle strength, she raised them as her own. Lorraine loved cooking and baking, and was known for her many requested specialties. A cookbook was created in her honor this past Christmas and was given to members of the family. In addition to cooking, she loved playing cards, dancing to polka, tending to her large garden, taking walks and listening to and watching sports, especially baseball and basketball. Her favorites were the Brewers, the "Cubbies," and the West Bend West baseball and basketball teams, for which her two grandsons have played.
Lorraine is survived by her husband, Richard Schilter; her children Christine Schilter, Ray (Nadine) Schilter, Jim (Carmen) Schilter, Donna (Bruce) Steinhardt and Henry (Tammy) Schilter; her eleven grandchildren Heather (Andre) Bennett, Melissa Schilter, Mike (Kala) Schilter, Dana Schilter, Kyle Schilter, Katie Steinhardt, Matthew Schilter, Ryan Schilter, Laura Schilter and Bruce (Emily) Baumhardt and Geoff Baumhardt; Gail (Juan) Aguirre, her daughter-in-law; and Joyce Hahn, her sister. She is preceded in death by her eleven siblings.
To honor Lorraine's wishes, a private family service was held. Donations to The Kathy Hospice, where she peacefully spent her last days, are appreciated. It is with profound gratitude we thank all of those who touched her life.
We, the family, know Lorraine lives on through memories, recipes and laughter. With grace, we remember her for the moments in her life that brought her happiness and peace. She will be deeply missed.
Written by Katie Steinhardt, granddaughter of Lorraine and Richard