Lois Jane Pommerenk

Lois Pommerenk, age 80, of Venice, Florida, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2026. She was born on July 8, 1946, in Mt. Clemens, Michigan, to Marion and Frederick Pommerenk.

Lois graduated from Central Michigan University with her teaching degree and dedicated 30 years of her life to education as an elementary school teacher in Utica Community Schools. She began her teaching career at Auburnshire School, where she taught kindergarten. She later moved to Plumbrook Elementary, teaching third grade, and completed her career at Schuchard Elementary, where she taught fifth grade. Lois earned her master’s degree in Elementary Education from Saginaw Valley State University.

Teaching was more than a career for Lois—it was a passion. Her students remembered her for the enthusiasm and creativity she brought into the classroom. She especially enjoyed teaching about the Iditarod, following the race each year, and sharing her love of Huskies by bringing her own Huskies to meet her students. Her impact on her students continued long after they left her classroom.

One former student beautifully expressed the influence Lois had on her students:

“I was at home and you suddenly came to mind. You were one of my greatest educators. You read the book *Where the Red Fern Grows* with an enthusiastic voice, and I always enjoyed that. Because of how well you educated me, I became an Honors Student for Math and for Language Arts. Thank you so much. I owe it all to you!”

Outside of the classroom, Lois will be remembered for her love of her Huskies and her enjoyment of playing cards. She loved bridge and euchre and eagerly learned any new card game she encountered. Later in life, she especially enjoyed playing Rummikub and took great pleasure in teaching several friends how to play. Lois was also an amazing golfer and had great stories about her rounds. On October 14, 2016, she celebrated a hole-in-one, witnessed by two close friends. She lit up every time her nephew brought it up. Lois hated to lose and approached every game with great enthusiasm, determination, and a competitive spirit.

Lois also loved the excitement of an occasional trip to the casino. She enjoyed the bright lights, sounds, games, and the anticipation of trying her luck. Going to the casino was especially fun when she could go with a group of friends. And when luck was on her side and Lois came home a winner, she loved sharing her winnings with those who had shared the fun with her. These special outings were filled with laughter, friendship, and memories she cherished.

Lois was predeceased by her parents, Marion and Frederick Pommerenk, and her sister, Deanna Pommerenk. She is survived by her sisters, Marilyn Tweddale and Janet McWilliams, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, whom she loved and treated as her own.

Lois leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, learning, friendship, and countless memories. She lived life with enthusiasm, a competitive spirit, a generous heart, and a wonderful sense of fun. The lives of her family, friends, and former students were made richer by knowing her, and she will be deeply missed.

Lois attended Venice Presbyterian Church and spoke often of her love of the Pastoral Team and the talented Music Department. Donations may be made in memory of Lois to:

Venice Presbyterian Church, Music Department 825 The Rialto Venice, FL 34285.