"An extraordinary educator who helped shape my life. Thank you for everything. Sending so much light and love to her family. "
In loving memory of
Lorri Sue Alonzo
February 10, 1959 - April 20, 2023
Lorri Sue Alonzo (64), passed peacefully at home on April 20th, 2023, in Glendale, AZ with her husband Armando and four children by her side.
Lorri was born in Mankato, MN, to Louis and Marcia Barkemeyer, where she grew up until her family relocated to Flagstaff, AZ in her pre-teen years. As time went on Flagstaff became home and played an integral role in her life as it became the place where she forged many lasting friendships, where she would meet Armando Alonzo (Husband), and where she would later give birth to three of her four children. As Lorri approached her 20s, she met Armando and after dating for merely four weeks, Lorri and Armando got engaged and made their vows to each other just five short months after that. Lorri and Armando went on to share 44 joyful memory-filled years happily married.
After graduating from Flagstaff High School, Lorri attended Northern Arizona University earning her Bachelor's in Education. Lorri's appreciation and dedication to education did not end there as she later went on to earn two master's degrees. A Master's in Education, from Northern Arizona University and a Master's in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University. Lorri went on to utilize her education by working in the Glendale Elementary School District for 33 years. Driven by her passion for educating the children of her community, Lorri served as a teacher for all grades ranging from pre-k to fifth grade, as an achievement advisor, as a lead teacher, and as vice principal, and ultimately retiring as the principal of Glen F. Burton.
Lorri delighted most in her family and the time they spent together. She enjoyed trips to the Phoenix Zoo and loved traveling with her husband Armando. Among the most memorable was their trip to the San Antonio River Walk and their trip to the Hawaiian Islands. But her absolute favorite pastime was the many trips she took to Disneyland with her family. Lorri will always be remembered for her faith, her infectious smile and contagious laugh, her kind generous soul, and her sassy spirit.
Lorri is survived by her husband Armando, children Emmy, Erin (spouse Rochelle), Benjamin (spouse Angel), and Brooke. Her grandchildren James, Jayden, Xane, Isaiah, and Levi. Her father Louis, her mother Marcia, and her brother Joel. And by her beloved beagles.
A celebration of Lorri's life is scheduled to take place at Hansen's Mortuary Chapel in Phoenix, AZ on May 20th at 4pm.
Tributes
"So sorry for your loss. I remember Lorri well. "
"I was deeply saddened by the loss of my friend and colleague! I had so much fun teaching with Lori! The laughter never stopped?and she was such a great encourager! She will be greatly missed!!! Sing with the angels Lori! See you soon. Pam Scott "
"My heart is broken. I got to work with Lorri while at GESD. She always always chipper and happy. She treated me like a human being, and I felt her love fill the room every time I saw her. I?m so sad of her passing, but I?m so grateful for the time I had with her. My deepest condolences and love. "
"So sorry to hear, may she rest in peace. We remember her bright and loving spirit very fondly. Sending our prayers for her and the family. Tom Hyder and Pilar Ramos"
"We were so sad to hear of Lorri?s passing. Lorri was a kind and very caring friend and sister in the faith. She will be greatly missed ?? Sending our love and prayers to the whole family. Especially holding you, Armando in our hearts with much love and affection. Tim and Kathy MacLean"
"Sorry to hear about this Armando,I had no idea that she was ill. I'm so sorry!!! Hang in there. My prayers are with you and your family. God bless you. "