Doris Ann McLaughlin, age 83 of Walnut Grove, died suddenly on Friday, June 30, 2023 at Sanford Tracy Medical Center. Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 6, 2023 at English Lutheran Church in Walnut Grove. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at church on Thursday. Burial will be held at a later date. Stephens Funeral Service – Walnut Grove Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Doris Ann (Spitzer) McLaughlin was welcomed into this world on March 5, 1940, in Eureka, South Dakota, by her parents Phillip and Pauline (Bauer) Spitzer. Doris received her education, was baptized and confirmed in her hometown of Eureka. In her younger years, Doris relocated to Pierre, where she was employed at Vilas Drug. While in Pierre, she crossed paths with the love of her life, Leonard McLaughlin. Doris and Leonard exchanged vows of marriage on April 16, 1961, at Zion Lutheran Church in Eureka. Shortly thereafter the two settled in Brookings, while Leonard pursued his studies toward his degree in education, and Doris worked at Kendall Drug. Following Leonard’s graduation, they made their way to Walnut Grove, MN, where Leonard began his teaching career. In 1967, Leonard and Doris welcomed their first child, Todd and in 1970, welcomed their daughter, Leslie. Doris embraced her role as a stay-at-home mom, devoting herself to raising their two children. As her own children grew, she delighted in attending their school activities. Throughout the years, she took on various endeavors, including a treasured daycare with Steven and Samantha, working at Red Owl, cleaning houses, and serving as a para for pre-school children. In her leisure time, Doris explored her passion for painting ceramics, showcasing her talent through numerous beautiful pieces. She also mastered the art of knitting, creating personalized hooded sweaters for each of her children and granddaughter. In 1996, Doris welcomed the arrival of her granddaughter, Madison (Winterquist) Haj, and cherished the opportunity to witness her grow into a remarkable woman. Doris taught Madison essential skills like riding a bike, making homemade bread, and playing cards. Doris enjoyed playing cards like Hand and Foot and Rummy with her friends. Shopping was a favorite delight of Doris’, enjoying her many trips to Herberger’s trying to find the perfect gift for everyone. As time went on, Doris developed an affinity for collecting dish sets, tablecloths of all shapes and sizes, and festive centerpieces for every holiday and season. A visit to Doris’ home meant being treated to a matching napkin that perfectly complemented the occasion. She took pleasure in hosting gatherings for her friends and family, always accompanied by a toast with a good glass of wine to celebrate life’s moments.

Doris is survived by her husband Leonard; her son Todd (Lisa Contino) McLaughlin of Philadelphia, PA; daughter Leslie (Wade Hockert) Winterquist of Fargo, ND; granddaughter Madison (Joseph) Haj of West Fargo, ND; and brother Don Spitzer of WA. Doris is preceded in death by her parents, Phillip and Pauline Spitzer.