April 8, 1963 – September 21, 2025
After a courageous 14-year battle with cancer, Lori Anne Richgels, 62, passed away peacefully on September 21st, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on April 8, 1963, in South St. Paul, Minnesota, Lori was the daughter of Shirley and Bill Arland. She met the love of her life, Larry Richgels, in 1979 at NorthStar Lanes Bowling Alley — a moment forever marked by the sparkle of her beautiful green eyes that first caught Larry’s attention.
Lori graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1985 with a degree in Elementary Education. A year earlier, on August 25, 1984, she married Larry, beginning a beautiful life together filled with love, laughter, and family. They welcomed their first child, Brad, in 1986, followed soon by Tom and Jill.
A devoted educator, Lori spent over three decades teaching at KinderCare Learning Centers, where she touched countless young lives with patience, warmth, and joy — especially in her favorite classroom: the two-year-olds.
Outside of the classroom, Lori was happiest with her family — cheering on Minnesota sports teams, fishing on the boat, traveling, and making memories with those she loved most.
Lori is survived by her beloved husband of 41 years, Larry Richgels; her children, Brad Richgels (Andrea), Tom Richgels (Samantha), and Jillian Baxter (Adam); her cherished grandchildren, Annabelle and Benjamin Richgels. She is also survived by her sister, Bonnie Swanson.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Shirley Arland and her sister, Bobbie Niskala.
Lori’s strength, kindness, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A Celebration of Life will be held on October 1st, 2025 from 4:00 pm-7:00 pm (6:00 pm prayer) at Roberts Funeral Home, 8108 Barbara Ave., Inver Grove Heights.
In lieu of flowers, please support Lori’s love of animals by sending donations to the Animal Humane Society.