Lois Eileen Corwin

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lois Corwin, age 89, on October 7, 2024 at her home in Bellevue, Washington. Cherished by so many, Lois was blessed to be surrounded by her children Jeff Corwin, Barb Oldenburger, and Kari Day (Tim) at the time of her passing.

Lois Eileen Mickelson was born on October 3, 1935 in Perham, Minnesota to the late Dave and Elsie Mickelson. A graduate of Minnesota’s Frazee High School and Concordia College, Lois is preceded in death by her beloved husband Fred who passed away on their 61st wedding anniversary in 2021. Lois is survived by younger brothers Dave (Jan) and Dean Mickelson, and also preceded in death by sister Carol Alm, brother-in-law David (Carol), and sister-in-law Diane Mickelson (Dean).

After graduating from college, and unconcerned by the norms of the time, Lois bravely moved to California to work as a teacher. This move proved fortuitous as Lois soon met the love of her life, Fred Corwin, in Sacramento. They were married on August 13, 1960 at Bethany Lutheran Church in Spruce Grove Township, Minnesota. Fred and Lois permanently settled in Bellevue in 1965.

In Bellevue, Lois taught at Bellevue Community College before accepting a position as Church Secretary at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church in Bellevue where she and Fred were active charter members for over sixty years. Lois also worked as secretary at Preaching and Prayer Ministries. At Cross of Christ, Lois was among a group of committed women who catered, coordinated, and commanded countless weddings and other church events for over half a century.

In addition to her three children, Lois was immensely proud of and deeply in love with her five grandchildren – Johanna, Erik (Lily), Cailin, Miles, and Meghan – and two great grandchildren, Harvey and Margaret. Grandma Lois could be counted on for a sweet treat and a gentle hug and was a reliable ally to kids and grandkids who needed one.

Lois’s kindness, generosity, and unconditional love are her greatest legacy. Her family, friends, and community are better for having had her in our lives. She is loved and she will be missed. Mange takke, Lois.