Lola Norene Fredericksen

Lola Norene Fredericksen, beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend passed away on May 20, 2023, at the age of 87. Born on November 23, 1935, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Roland ‘Pete’ and Eldora ‘Babe’ Gardner Phelps. She was the youngest of two children and adored her brother Garth. Norene lived a life filled with joy, adventure, and a deep appreciation for nature and loved ones.

Graduating in 1954 from Blackfoot High School, she married Cleone Vanderwood before starting her senior year. Later in life, she joked her husband had to sign her report cards. During their marriage, they welcome their son Kevin and daughter Kerri.

Years after her divorce and a move to Pocatello, Norene would meet Donald Fredericksen, the great love of her life, while working at the jewelry counter of JCPenney. They married in Portland, Oregon and remained married until Don’s death in 2012.

Norene was a woman of many passions and hobbies, each of which brought her immense happiness throughout her journey. She and Don loved to go dancing—always interested in fashion; she was never without something to wear. Her adventurous spirit led her to embrace the great outdoors and she found peace in the serene landscapes while engaging in cross-country skiing, golfing, and fishing trips to Mackay, Idaho.

Horseback riding was another activity Norene was keen on. Norene had a fondness for tropical destinations and her trips to Hawaii with Don were a source of relaxation and rejuvenation. The sun, sand, and ocean waves provided a perfect backdrop for her to unwind and appreciate the beauty of life.

Norene found great comfort and strength in her faith. Joining Grace Lutheran in 1988, she was active in church functions, chapel cleaning and decorating, and choir. She dedicated her time and energy to her religious community, finding solace in worship and supporting her fellow congregants. Her faith served as a guiding light throughout her life's journey.

Above all, Norene’s greatest joy came from spending time with her family. She often made trips to Salmon, Idaho to visit her son and his family. Her daughter and granddaughters could always be found visiting her home. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and doting grandmother and great grandmother. She treasured family gatherings, especially holidays, creating lifelong memories filled with laughter, love and shared stories. Her warm and nurturing spirit will forever be etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, a baby son, brother Garth, husband Don, and granddaughter Heather.

She is survived by her son Kevin (Tammy) Vanderwood of Salmon, daughter Kerri (Doug) North of Pocatello, grandson Karl (Anna) of Bozeman, granddaughters Samantha (Eric) of Burley, Tiffany of Pocatello, and great grandchildren Quinn and Aurora.

Norene leaves behind a legacy of love, adventure, and unwavering faith. She will be dearly missed by her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family, and countless friends whose lives she touched. Although her physical presence may no longer grace our lives, her spirit and the love she shared will endure, reminding us to embrace life's joys and cherish those we hold dear.

A graveside service to celebrate Norene’s life will be held on June 2, 2023 at 11 am at Grove City Cemetery in Blackfoot, Idaho. Family and friends are invited to attend and pay their respects.

May Norene’s soul find eternal peace, and may her memory forever be a blessing to all those who knew and loved her.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family under the Tribute Wall tab above.