Lorraine A. (McDermott) Wedekind

Wonderful wife, mother, aunt and friend passed away March 6, 2017, in Sonoma. She was born on June 6, 1921, in San Francisco, to James and Julia (Lourdeaux) McDermott. Lorraine attended St. Paul's Grammar School, in 1939 graduated from St. Rose Academy and then attended the University of California at Berkeley. Though reared in San Francisco, she spent much time visiting her grandmother in Verano. It was during those visits that she met Frank Wedekind, a local fruit rancher. They were married in 1942. In 1946 when Frank returned from World War II active duty they settled in the Wedekind family home in Sonoma. Shortly thereafter, they opened a seasonal fruit stand, featuring products grown on the ranch. Lorraine ran the fruit stand, in addition to raising three little girls. In 1950, the fruit stand grew to a year-round business. With Frank's love of plants and horticulture Wedekind's Nursery was opened in 1956. Lorraine thoroughly enjoyed helping customers, purchasing and arranging gift items and initiating the Annual Christmas Open Houses.

After retiring, Lorraine became very active in community events and projects. She was a member of the Native Daughters of the Golden West for over 75 years and the Sonoma Valley Woman's Club. She worked tirelessly for the American Cancer Society, driving patients to treatment and coordinating the Annual Wine Tasting Fundraiser. She was a founding docent for the Toscano Hotel and among the original volunteers of Sonoma Valley Hospice, spearheading the Annual Hospice Tree Lighting Ceremony. In later years Lorraine and Frank traveled extensively, including multiple trips to visit relatives in Alaska, which she thoroughly enjoyed.

A woman who saw the positive in any situation, she evoked lightheartedness and laughter in everyone. Throughout her life she was an avid bridge player, as well as a skilled seamstress and knitter. Lorraine was well known for her love of marshmallows and Coke. Fun loving and full of mischief, she derived great pleasure from the mutual provoking carried on for years with Ron at Broadway Market.

She was preceded in death by her husband Frank and daughter Francine. She is survived by her daughters Joanne and Janet, "adopted" son Bill Taylor, loving dog Annie, nephew Corky and niece Bonnie and their families. Many thanks to the Schell Vista Fire Department and deepest appreciation to Lorraine's wonderful caregiver Sue Pitman. A Celebration of Lorraine's Life was held on Saturday, April 1, 2017, from 1:30 pm - 4:30 p.m. at the Schell Vista Firehouse.

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