Louise Maryann Phipps

Devoted Wife, Mother, Grandmother, and Friend

Louise Laurenzi Phipps passed away peacefully, surrounded by her three daughters and son-in-law on Saturday, March 5 in Orange, CA. She was 94. Louise was the only daughter born to Silvio and Assunta Laurenzi, in Sacramento, CA. Her childhood was one of countless adventures with her 3 brothers (Geno, Ugo, and Tony) on the family ranch. She attended Sacramento High School and following high school graduation, was hired as the attendance officer. She loved her job and peers and remained there for the next 10 years.

It was during these years that she met the love of her life Mart Phipps. They met on New Year’s Eve in 1955 and on Valentine’s Day Mart asked Louise out for a night of dancing at the Tuesday Club, the rest is history, they married six months later. They made their home in Woodland, CA. where they built a successful business, Nielsen Nursery, for over 40 years. Despite running a business and managing her growing, busy family Louise always had time for everyone and happily welcomed another one at the table. She was a proud first-generation Italian American and her guest often enjoyed her old country family recipes.

Following retirement, Mart and Louise relocated to be near their grandchildren in 2001. Retirement in sunny Southern California agreed with them as they found a new home at Orange Park Heights in Orange, CA. Louise made great friends during her 20 years of residence and enjoyed the many activities the community offered. You could often find her playing canasta or bingo in the rec room or preparing a special treat for the potlucks or game night.

Louise will be especially remembered for loving with all her heart, her kindness, cookies, love of games, keen mind, and her deep devotion to family. She proudly followed her grandchildren’s academic and sports accomplishments and had a deep and close bond with them.

She is survived by her three daughters, Mary Anne, Diane, and Laurie, son Jim, son-in-law Scott and grandchildren Mark and Morgan Messenger, extended family in Northern California, and many friends. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 50 years Mart.

Louise will reunite with Mart at Fairhaven Memorial Park’s serenity garden on their anniversary in August.

Louise, may you rest in peace.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.fairhavenmemorial.com for the Phipps family.