Lauretta Wolter, 65, died at her home in Cloverdale, on Friday, Jan. 7, 2011, after a long battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her loving family.

Lauretta was born in Alturas, Calif., on April 12, 1945. She was raised by her grandparents, Jess and Laura Garr, who lived in Northwood, Iowa. Jess was a farmer and Laura was a nurse aide. She graduated from Emmons High School in 1963.

Lauretta met Mike in 1961 and they married June 15, 1963. Their daughter, Tammy, was born in 1964.

In 1969 the family moved to St. Paul. They lived in many places in the St. Paul area. In 1982 Lauretta and Mike moved to Colorado. They bought a bare piece of property on the Colorado River in Gypsum, Colo., and through trials and tribulations built a beautiful home. Lauretta made many friends there, and Colorado always held a special place in her heart. They retired and moved back to Minnesota in 2004.

When she was younger, Lauretta loved going to stock car races to watch and cheer for her Uncle Rex. Lauretta was his No. 1 fan. Lauretta was an avid Vikings fan. Fran Tarkenton was her all-time favorite. She also loved Elvis and went to Graceland in 2006 with her daughter, Tammy, a trip that was wonderful for both of them. Lauretta loved cooking and was not afraid to try new dishes. You would never find a more loyal friend than Lauretta, and she always put you ahead of herself.

Surviving are husband, Mike Wolter; daughter, Tammy Wolter; sisters: June Ebbe (Bruce) and Linda Williamson; brothers: Charlie Wright and Jerry Bibus (LeeAnn); uncle, Rex Garr (Elaine); brother-in-law, Al Wolter; cousins: Dawn Knutson, DeDe Haroldson (Bob) and Rex (Buzz) Garr Jr.; niece, Alaina Lyseth (Joe); godchildren: Samantha Bekeart (Fran) and Kara Pryde (Dan); sister-in-law, Nancy Wolter; and special friends Sandra Hause, Sharon Lacasse and Miriam Smith.

It was Lauretta’s request not to have a funeral. At a date yet to be determined a celebration of life gathering will be held at her home.