Laurel Ann Flora

Flora, Laurel Ann 75 Nov. 04, 1940 Oct. 15, 2016 Laurel Ann "Laurie" Flora, 75, died peacefully in her home on Saturday, Oct. 15, 2016 in Portland. Laurel Ann Paulson was born Nov. 4, 1940 in Jackson, Minn. to Peary and Josie (Kulseth) Paulson. She spent her childhood and high school years in Jackson, then graduated from Waldorf College in Forest City, Iowa. Soon after, she received her ASCP certification in Medical Technology. In the 1960s, she spent more than four years providing medical services at Sudan Mission Hospital in Ngaoundere, Cameroon, Africa. After returning to the U.S., she moved to Portland and began her career as a medical technologist at Bess Kaiser Hospital, where she worked for many years. In 1971, she married Bill Flora. In her later years, she acted in various volunteer roles and enjoyed spending time with her family. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Laurie is survived by daughter, Stephanie of Beaverton; son, Erik (Liz) of Portland; sisters, Marlys (Bill) Shields of Carbondale, Ill. and Elaine Fick of Mankato, Minn.; brother, Arlan (Linda) Paulson of Ossian, Iowa; granddaughter, Avari of Portland; former husband, Bill; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Mercy Corps.