Marie “Lillian” Lake, 87, died peacefully Sunday, September 19, 2021, at her home in Luck, Wisconsin, with her family by her side. Lillian was one of the kindest, most gentle souls any of us have ever known. She dedicated her life to caring for others, especially her family and her church family. Her deep and abiding faith was always central in her life.

Lillian was born June 7, 1934, in Orwell, Vermont, to Jeanne and Dona Quesnel. She grew up on a farm with her brother, Roger. Lillian was the valedictorian of her senior class in 1951. In 1971, she graduated as valedictorian and class president from the Polk County Teachers’ College in Frederic, Wisconsin.

Lillian was united in marriage to Donald Lake, the love of her life, in Brandon, Vermont, May 12, 1956. They spent 65 wonderful years together; raising their family, traveling, and enjoying making memories together.

Lillian worked as a medical secretary at Mount Sinai Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota, while Donald was attending college. After relocating to Luck, Wisconsin, with Donald in 1961, and after completing her degree, Lillian began working at the Luck Public Schools as the elementary school librarian. Lillian worked at Luck schools for 21 years until her retirement in 1991.

Lillian was very involved in her church. She participated in the church choir, Council of Catholic Women (CCW), lay ministry, and taught Catechism classes.

Lillian was preceded in death by her parents, Jeanne and Dona Quesnel; her brother, Roger Quesnel; and an infant sister.

Lillian is survived by her husband, Donald Lake; children, Jeanne (Jess) Skiba, Karl (Gail) Lake, David (Brenda Hvambsal-Lake) Lake, and Paul (Jennifer) Lake; 15 grandchildren; and 14 great grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, October 4, 2021, 11:00 a.m. at St. Dominic Catholic Church in Frederic, Wisconsin, with a lunch to follow. Visitation will also be held at St. Dominic Catholic Church, Monday, October 4th at 10:00 a.m.

Memorials are requested in lieu of flowers. Organizations that were special to Lillian include: Interfaith Caregivers, St. Croix Falls, WI and St. Dominic Catholic Church, Frederic, WI.

Arrangements are entrusted to Rowe Funeral Home, and the Northwest Wisconsin Cremation Center in Milltown.

Last Update: Sep 22, 2021 3:45 pm CDT