Vivian Lanners Gregoire was born on January 30, 1928, in rural St. Leo. She was the daughter of John and Catherine (Nosbusch) Lanners. She received Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation at St. Leo Catholic Church in St. Leo. Vivian attended St. Leo Catholic School and graduated from Clarkfield High School. She was employed at various banks including Clarkfield State, University National, Minneapolis, and Norwest.
Vivian married James Gregoire on October 7, 1950, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church. They were married for 58 wonderful years. Vivian’s primary career was as a homemaker and dedicated caregiver to her family. She was active with the hospital auxiliary and Catholic Daughters. She had a special love for the Immaculate Heart Study Club, of which she was a 1954 charter member. Her first priorities were always her faith and family. Vivian’s four children brought her joy, pride, and happiness. She loved to play cards, with Bridge being her favorite. Jim and Viv enjoyed travel and simple pleasures.
Vivian suffered a stroke at age 79 and accepted the resulting difficulties of speech, hearing, and reading with dignity. She never let her disorders stand in the way of living life to its fullest.
Vivian died on Tuesday, July 9, 2019, at Avera Morningside Heights Care Center in Marshall.
Vivian was preceded in death by her spouse James Gregoire; parents John and Catherine Lanners; siblings Leo Lanners, Agnes Martinson, Irene Swedzinski, Alvin Lanners, Roger Lanners, and Gilbert Lanners. She is survived by her children Suzanne (Richard) Moriarity, John (Joan) Gregoire, Paul (partner, Carol Kuhle) Gregoire, Jane (Dan) Youngberg; grandchildren Michael, Robert, Elizabeth, Matthew, Jack, and Rachel; and great-grandchildren Charlotte, Madigan, and Sylvie.
We extend a special thanks to the dedicated staff at Boulder Estates, Avera Long Term Care, and Avera Hospice for the tender and loving care provided to Viv over the past 12 years. The family requests that all those who knew and loved her perform an act of kindness in her memory. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to Holy Redeemer Catholic School, 503 W. Lyon St., Marshall, MN 56258 or call 507-532-5711.
