Lori Ellen Smith

 Lori Ellen Vinje Smith, age 66, of Portland, ND, passed away on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at her home.

 Lori was born on September 8, 1958, to Wilmar and Frieda (Hintz) Vinje in Moorhead, MN. She was baptized at Perry Lutheran Church in Portland, ND, and confirmed at the United Methodist Church in Leola, SD. Lori moved back to Mayville in 8th grade and graduated from MayPort High School in 1976.

Throughout her life, Lori held a variety of jobs that reflected her hardworking and caring nature. She worked as a daycare provider, a car hop, and a cook at the Mayville Drive-In, bookkeeper at Mayville Motors, self-employed bookkeeper, pizza artist at Bonita Pizza, Deputy Auditor for the City of Mayville, and a transport aide at Luther Memorial Home. The last being her favorite.

 Lori was always an animal lover, however her love of dogs started when Julie was gifted a puppy without asking Lori’s permission. Spencer very quickly became Lori’s best friend; therefore, Julie then needed her own dog, along came Spider. Lori never lived without a dog again, until she recently said goodbye to her loyal companion, Max, after 17 years.

 Lori was known for her expert small talk, which she credited to her time working at Mayville Motors. She was also an excellent speller, a lightning-fast money counter from her years at the Drive-In, and someone with a deep passion for playing cards and board games. Lori enjoyed staying busy with sewing, gardening, crafting, visiting casinos, puzzles, eating cookies, reading, cooking, baking, experiencing new restaurants and trying new recipes in her own kitchen. Most recently volunteering at the food pantry. 

Above all, Lori cherished being a mom, a grandma and spending time with her family and friends.

 Survived by her daughter: Julie; son-in-law: Corey and her grandchildren: Lora and Cody Teigland, Mayville, ND. Lori also leaves behind her beloved grand pups: Allis, Lea and Whiskey; her brother: Gary Lupien and his family, many extended family members including: Sheryl Vinje and step-brother: Dennis (Nancy) Brovold and numerous friends.

 She was preceded in death by her parents; step-mom: Verna and her fur babies: Rusty, Spencer, Spider, Buddy, Mickey, Minnie and Max.

Blessed be the memory of Lori Ellen Smith.

Casual dress is requested.

Visitation: Will be one hour prior to the service at the chapel.

Funeral Service: Will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, February 1, 2025 at the Baker Funeral Home Chapel in Mayville, ND.

Burial: Will be in the Perry Cemetery in Portland, ND.