Florene Whipple

Florene Laura (Nash) Whipple, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at the age of 98. She left this world surrounded by her loving family at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota.

Born on January 12, 1926, to Meta (Westphal) and Earl H. Nash in Wykoff, Fillmore County, Minnesota, Florene was a beacon of vitality and joy. Raised on her family's farm, she developed an enduring love for the land and the simple pleasures of country life. Her spirit and sense of humor were as deep-rooted as the farm she cherished. She proudly graduated from Wykoff High School in 1944.

Shortly after graduating, Florene embarked on a new chapter, moving to Rochester with her friend Millie and $20.00 in her pocket in search of broader horizons. It was there that she met her soulmate, Floyd Forrest Quincy Whipple. Their love story culminated in their marriage on October 10, 1945, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Wykoff. Upon Floyd's return from World War II, they made their home in Rochester, eventually settling on a picturesque farm in Marion Township.

Florene dedicated her life to her family, working first at Methodist Hospital and once she started a family as a homemaker caring for her six children. Her nurturing hands tended not only to her garden but also her many cherished pets, especially her adored Dachshunds. Her passions extended to travel, which she embraced with family, friends, and siblings, making memories that were as vivid as her stories.

Florene is survived by her daughters Suzanne K. Irvin of Rochester; Nancy J. (Roy) Kruger of Byron; Patricia A. Viker of Rochester; and her son Ronald E. Whipple of Dexter. She is also survived by her sister Gloria Engel and daughter-in-law Lonnie Whipple. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her 12 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren and a great-great grandson. Florene was preceded in death by her Husband; sons Richard and Kevin; son-in-laws Richard Irvin and Bob Viker; daughter-in-law Diane Whipple; brothers Clarence, Donald and Harvey; and sisters Frances, Dolores, and Phyllis.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 pm on Sunday, August 4, 2024, at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 am on Monday, August 5, 2024, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Rochester, officiated by Rev. Nathaniel Schwartz. There will be a visitation one hour before the funeral service at the church. Florene will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery in Rochester.

Florene's life was a testament to love, laughter, and family. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Whipple family. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com