Service Details
A Celebration of Life for Lori will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Infusino’s Banquet Hall, 3201 Rapid Drive, Racine, Wisconsin 53404. Per Lori’s wishes, this will be a casual celebration—guests are invited to wear jeans and show their support for a favorite sports team.
Memorial Suggestions
In lieu of flowers, Lori requested that memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society in honor of the many loved ones in her life who were impacted by cancer.
After a life well lived, Dolores “Lori” Hodges, age 84, passed peacefully on January 9, 2026. She was born on May 8, 1941, in Little Chute, Wisconsin, the daughter of the late Donald and June (Thein) Vander Velden and was a graduate of Kimberly High School.
Lori was united in marriage to Peter Hodges, who preceded her in death on December 16, 1990. She was the mother of one daughter, Jane (Tom) Becker, and a proud grandmother to Ashley (Jacob) Deininger and Kelley Becker, and great-grandmother to Aria and Kinsley Deininger. She was actively involved in her granddaughters’ lives and shared that same devotion with her great-granddaughters. Lori worked for many years at Walker Manufacturing in Racine, WI. Later in life, she enjoyed working at Subway in Winneconne, WI, where many came to know her as “the Subway lady.” Lori enjoyed spending time at her home on Lake Poygan and was a dedicated supporter of the Winneconne Wolves, and a lifelong Green Bay Packers fan. Her faith, generosity, and welcoming smile left a lasting impression on those who knew her.
Lori was the center of a large family and is survived by her siblings Jerry (Deanna) Vander Velden, Don (Vonnie) Vander Velden, John Vander Velden, Tim (Mary Jo) Vander Velden, Bill (Donna) Vander Velden, David (Rose) Vander Velden, Dina (Scot) Mumford, Dan (Patty) Vander Velden, and Jane Koehler; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her brother Ken Vander Velden; her niece Kelley Bozzaacchi; and her great-niece Frehley Gilmore.
The family would like to especially thank the Racine/Kenosha Aurora Hospice team and Hospice Alliance for their wonderful care of Lori.
Frankie Koehler Castilleja says
You will be missedLori. I remember as a small child enjoying time “at the lake” with Lori and Pete. Fond childhood memories. I was saddened to hear of her passing. I pray for peace, strength, and courage through your time of sorrow. I am thinking of you. Her smile, friendliness and welcoming spirit will be certainly missed. Much love- Frankie Koehler Castilleja.
Peggy Rose. says
Jane and Tom, I am so sorry for your loss of your mom. We had fun times working at walker and enjoyed her friendship. May you find comfort that Vern will meet her on the other side and they can live in eternal peace along with. Pete and the rest of the family. My condolences.