Laurie J. Jorgensen, age 72, of Tomahawk, passed away peacefully on Nov. 18, 2025, under the care of her family and Aspirus Hospice. She was born in Buffalo, N.Y., on July 14, 1953, to the late William A. and Ruth M. (Jennings) Little. Laurie married Arnold “Swede” Jorgensen on Dec. 27, 1989; he passed less than one week previously, on Nov. 13, 2025.
Laurie grew up in Swartz Creek, Mich., where she was a 1972 graduate of Swartz Creek High School. She later attended Mott Community College earning her nursing degree in 1984. Laurie’s compassionate nature led her to a fulfilling career in nursing. She worked in various clinics/hospitals touching the lives of countless patients and families with her kindness, expertise, and dedication. It was in Washington State that Laurie met her husband, Swede. The two were married in 1989, and soon after, they moved to Tomahawk where Laurie continued her work as a nurse and became a cherished member of the community. She retired as an oncology nurse at the Sacred Heart Hospital and Clinic. Known for her warm smile, Laurie was often referred to as the “Tomahawk Turtle Lady” by those who knew her best. Her love for turtles was well-known, and she took great joy in raising turtles and collecting many turtle-themed items. Laurie’s free time was often spent crafting beautiful Diamond Dots designs, a hobby she cherished, reading, and going to vintage car shows. Her love of the Bee Gees' music also filled her home, and their songs will forever be remembered as the soundtrack to many of her joyful moments.
Survivors include her daughters, Kerri Gallenbeck, of Flint, Mich., Shannon Gallenbeck (Don Gleason), of Boone, Iowa, and Dawn (Troy) Franson, of Tomahawk; and her son, Arnie (Tamy) Jorgensen, of Sugar Camp, Wis. Laurie is further survived by her grandchildren, Kevin Brunner, Harley Jorgensen, and Samantha Jorgensen; her special nieces and nephews, David (Ruthann) Little, Mary Teffner, and Julie (James) Lehman; and her friends, Arlene Ruplinger, Mike Mackin, and Sharon Kolarik.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Ruth; her husband, Swede; her brother, William H. Little; and her sister, Kathleen Russ.
A celebration of both Laurie’s life and Swede’s life will be celebrated together on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, at Generations Funeral Home, at 11 a.m. Rev. Larry Mathein will officiate. The family will receive friends for visitation from 9 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m.
Memorials are appreciated to the American Cancer Society.
Generations Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family. You may view Laurie’s obituary and leave online condolences at www.generationsfuneral.com.
