Laura Papenbrock

Laura Katherine (Fridenstine) Papenbrock, age 95, died peacefully on February 6, 2020 in her home. Laura was born on October 3, 1924 in Elyria, Ohio and lived there for more than 80 years before moving to Columbus, Ohio.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Joseph Donald Papenbrock; parents, George and Hazel Fridenstine; step-father, Gilbert Smith. Laura was the last surviving member of 10 brothers and sisters, Glen (Anne), Donald (Helen), David (Ruth), Harold, Clyde (Helen), Alvin (Mae), Jerry Fridenstine, Maude (John) Schoditsch and Jean (Roger) Williams.

Laura is survived by her daughters, Joanne (David) Miller, Jane (Rodney "Bo") Beauchamp; grandchildren, Stephanie (John) Pinson, Jeff (Sherri) Miller, Katie (David) LaPlatney, Jennifer (Joe) Birmele, Angela (William) McCubbin; great-grandchildren, Justin and Darien Kupec, Lincoln, Joy and Sam Miller, Taryn LaPlatney, Ashley, Landon and Paden Birmele; sisters-in-law, Josephine and Tessie Fridenstine, Evelyn Keys and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Laura was a graduate of Elyria High School and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Kent State University. For over 30 years she taught third-grade in the Midview and Elyria School Districts and was very active in the Lorain County School Employees Credit Union. She was also a member of Kappa Delta Pi and was a life-long learner.

Her interests included all kinds of arts and crafts and she enjoyed hosting craft days at her house. She loved traveling with friends and family and welcomed every chance she had to see new sights. Joe and Laura spent many weekends on Lake Erie catching perch for the wonderful fish frys they hosted. Laura worked hard in their large gardens each year, spending hours canning and freezing the vegetables they grew. She was a big fan of the Cleveland Indians and enjoyed watching all of the games. Laura looked forward to her bowling nights with fellow teachers.


Whether called "Mom", "Grandma", "Oma" or "Great-Grandma", Laura was dearly loved by all. Her home in Elyria and later in Columbus, was always a welcome gathering place for many get-togethers and happy memories with her loving family.

The family is grateful to all the caregivers, especially Ramona, who helped ensure that Laura was well-cared for through her final years of life.

The family will receive guests on Saturday, February 15, 2020 from 1-3:00 p.m. at Newcomer-SW Chapel, 3393 Broadway in Grove City. The Celebration of Life Service will begin at 3:00 p.m.

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