Lorna Pistorius

Lorna Louise (Krone) Pistorius, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great (great) grandmother passed away on February 18, 2025, at Kinder Care in West Fargo, ND at the age of 95. Born on May 27, 1929, in Rural Grant Township, SD, Lorna exemplified a work ethic that few could match, having developed her determination from a young age while helping on the family farm and caring for her siblings. Lorna was confirmed in 1949 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Browns Valley, MN. In 1950, Lorna married Alvin Pistorius, also at Zion Lutheran Church in Browns Valley, MN. Their marriage was blessed with their son, Lynn and daughter, Arlene. 

Lorna started her days early; 4:30 AM at the nursing home, where her compassion and dedication shone until her shift ended at 3 PM. After long hours of service, she would return to the family farm, where she found joy in driving the combine during harvest, working on her immaculate flower gardens, or lighting up the neighborhood with her stunning Christmas decorations. Her handiwork attracted sightseers from miles around. Lorna made a lasting impact, retiring from the same nursing home not once, but three times, a true indicator of her love for her work and those she served. Lorna took pride in her husband Alvin’s military service, volunteering at the Sisseton (SD) VFW for many years, showing her strong spirit and commitment to community. In 2009, Lorna and Alvin retired and moved to Wahpeton to be closer to family.  

Throughout her life, Lorna was undeniably proud of her family and took great pride in her role as a grandmother and great (great) grandmother. She adored her great-grandchildren—Brynlee and Karsen Heger, Shae and Teigyn O'Leary, Avery LaClaire, Jorden (Maddie), Jace, and Jaxen Pistorius—as well as her great, great-grandchild, Westyn Pistorius. 

Lorna was known for her unique personality, characterized by her one-of-a-kind hairstyle, fashion choices, and her signature stiletto heels. Effortlessly breaking the mold, she left an indelible mark on all who knew her, demonstrating strength, grace, and a touch of sass.

She is survived by her son, Lynn (Marlene) Pistorius, and their children: Stacy (Tim) O'Leary, Tara (Andy) LaClaire, and Scot (Justine) Pistorius; her daughter, Arlene (Terry) Meyer, and their children, Kayla (Brad) Heger and Derek (Bailey) Meyer. Her sisters-in-law, Elaine Edwards and Sharon Pistorius.

Lorna was preceded in death by her beloved husband Alvin, her parents Henry and Emma, her sister Karen, and her brother Henry. These cherished souls who are now reunited in eternal rest.

Visitation services will be held at Vertin Munson Funeral Home in Wahpeton, ND, on March 1, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 2:00 PM that same day. As family and friends gather to celebrate her remarkable life, they will no doubt share laughter and tears, honoring the extraordinary woman who touched their lives in countless ways. 

The legacy of Lorna Pistorius will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.