Julie LW sent on January 23 2021

Laura Stein, 1937-2021

Hi all -  sad news.  Laura Stein passed from this life on Thursday, Jan 21, 2021.

Laura had been dealing with some pretty major health issues the past few years, but we were pleased to see her on the dance floor, with Bob at their anniversary dance, in Dec of ‘19- just a few months before we had to pause our dances.

Bob sent an email yesterday announcing an online memorial that will be held in the coming weeks.  I’ll let you know when I know more.

Bob has requested that we have a dance in honor and memory of Laura in March of 2022.

here are a few thoughts on Laura and her place in our community (and the many other communities of which she was a part)   from Facebook posts:

Lansing lost a pillar of our folk, music, education and political activist communities today. Laura Stein passed away early this afternoon with Bob at her side. She has been a warm, welcoming presence since the mid 70s in the Ten Pound Fiddle Coffee House, MSU early childhood education, Looking Glass Music and Arts Association and multiple other activities. We are saddened by her loss but SO enriched by having her in our lives.

*Laura should have lived forever. She had such a great ability to connect deeply with others, such a warm and loving presence, such a deep and beautiful soul. She gave so much to this community.
*

I so appreciated Laura’s genuine loving kindness and how it radiated from her like a warm stove. Goodnight, Laura, and thanks for all the tunes and dances.

May her memory be a blessing. My heart is aching but also filled with so many happy memories.

Laura had the most welcoming smile; she will be sorely missed.

*One of the first friendly faces I came to know when I started dancing. *

She has struggled with health issues recently, so this is not entirely a surprise. She was a talented teacher, musician, and dancer among other things. But to me she was mainly a presence. Laura was the warmest person I’ve ever met. Her ability to reach out to others and make them feel heard and valued was amazing. I feel like I learned a great deal from her about being open, welcoming, and supportive. I will miss her, as will many others I’m sure.

Please hold Bob, Mara, Karen and the grandchildren in your hearts and prayers.

Julie LW