Laurie Ellen Thompson, born Laurena Ellen Shaeffer, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and dearly loved friend passed away on August 18th, at the age of 67. She was surrounded by her husband, children, and good friends. 

   Laurie lived a resilient and determined life being the first in her family to complete college as a Civil Engineer. She completed her program of study at a time when women were discouraged from entering the field. Always undeterred by opposition, she proudly excelled in a career as an Engineer. She impressed the importance of education and independence on her children Casey and Jandy and demonstrated a never ending unconditional love for those she cared for.  Having always broken through the barriers that the world consistently tried to place in front of her, Laurie unfailingly worked to help those around her become more than they thought they could be.  Later in life, Laurie found true joy in her marriage to Miles Thompson as they traveled, spent time with great friends, and enjoyed life.  She took incredible pride as a grandmother and lit up when she spoke about her nine grandchildren. 

She was the daughter of Dean and Connie Shaeffer and is survived by her husband Miles, children; Casey Barton and his wife Sarah; Jandy Pastore and her husband Chris; her stepdaughters Caitlin Thompson and Shannon Bennett and her husband Reed; her grandchildren, Elizabeth, Abigail, Eugene, Theo, Christopher, Carter, Caden, Azalea, and Adam; her brother Larry Shaeffer, and the dog she never knew she could love so much, Hemi. She will be remembered for her strength, vibrance, and love.

   A memorial service will be held Wednesday, August 23, at 5 p.m. at The Boathouse, 980 Lakeside Dr. Lathrop, CA 95330. Light  refreshments provided. Please indicate your attendance by emailing: caseybarton<\@>gmail.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to help the victims of fires in Hawaii.

Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin

Tuesday, August. 22, 2023