Lorna Rita Woockman

Lorna Rita Woockman beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2024 at the age of 71 surrounded by family. Born on September 20, 1952 in Long Beach California, she touched the lives of everyone she met with her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love. She was raised by her loving mother, father, and grandmother as an only child in Anaheim, California.

At the young age of 16 she met the love of her life, Robert, in high school. By age 18 they were married as soul mates. They share a lifetime of memories as their lives became one. Their marriage of 54 years was a testament of love and created a pillar and example of love for their kids and future generations.

Lorna dedicated her life to her family and community. She was a devoted mother to Richard, Kristina, Robby, and Lauren, always putting her children's needs above her own. During her children’s upbringing, she was a stay-at-home mom, providing a loving and nurturing environment. She devoted her time to her kids and the community by volunteering at the children’s school, church, and the local Boy’s and Girls’ Club.

In her later years, Lorna embarked on entrepreneurial ventures with her husband, Robert Woockman. Together, they owned and operated businesses dedicated to caring for others, including Home Instead and Merry Maids cleaning services. Her dedication to helping others was a hallmark of her life.

Later Lorna became a grandmother to her 9 grandchildren: Kayla, Aidan, Matisyn, Ella, Cole, Haylee, Bria, Lyla, and Devan. She was so proud of her role as grandma and would share with anyone who would listen. As an integral part of their daily lives, Lorna cooked their favorite meals, helped with homework, made school lunches, went to sporting games and school functions, watched movies, shared her cooking skills in the kitchen, and gave unconditional love and support to those living with her and those far. A woman of many talents, Lorna had a special love for cooking, especially German and Swiss cuisine, inspired by her mother who was born and raised in Zürich, Switzerland. Her culinary skills brought joy and warmth to countless family gatherings and celebrations.

Her passion for travel, particularly to Switzerland, allowed her to explore her heritage and connect with the culture and extended family overseas that was so dear to her heart. These travels were filled with cherished memories of indulging in her favorites of Mövenpick coffee and Luxemburgerli confectionaries from Sprüngli while walking down the cobble stone streets and listening to the church bells ring. These adventures were often shared with friends and family and referred to as heaven on earth. Lorna also loved to get spoiled on cruises. Cruising was a passion that was also an outlet of peace and serenity while drinking her coffee on the balcony above the endless water.

 Her love extended to all creatures great and small, especially her cherished puppies, Scooter, Max, and Maggie who brought her immense joy and comfort. The bond she shared with them was a testament to her compassionate and loving nature. They were referred to as her babies and treated just the same. Each day they can be found snuggled in her lap in the car or at home on the couch. They never left her side guarding her with unconditional love and devotion.

Her legacy of love and kindness will live on through her children, grandchildren, and all those who were fortunate enough to know her. She is survived by her husband, Robert Woockman, Daughter and son in-law, Kristina and Trevor McCarthney, Son and daughter in-law, Robby and Stephanie Woockman, and daughter and son in-law Lauren and Steve Pickens, and grandchildren Kayla, Aidan, Matisyn, Ella, Cole, Haylee, Bria, Lyla, and Devan who will carry her memory in their hearts forever. 

A mass to celebrate Lorna's life will be held on August 5, 2024 at Good Shepherd Church at 12:00 noon, where friends and family are invited to pray, remember, and honor her remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation reflecting her generous spirit and dedication to helping others. Donations can be made at Cholangiocarcinoma.org/donate/ in honor of her.