Laura Nell Boysen was born to Anton and Jennie (Monson) Boysen on May 16, 1923.

She died May 28, 2005 in North Platte, NE.

She was raised as an only child on a farm between Kearney and Minden. Continuing her education, she was staying with friends and attending Los Angeles Pacific College when the United States become involved in World War II. To help support the war effort she went to work at the Douglas Aircraft plant and her church group began writing letters to servicemen. A young sailor, Calvin Lewis, exchanged letters with her. When Calvin was wounded, Laura found a place on a bus the school had provided, and went to San Francisco to first meet her pen pal at Treasure Island.

Calvin and Laura were married in February of 1944 and took up housekeeping in Calvin's hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana. During the war Calvin had contracted malaria and a recurring bout soon convinced them that the climate was not suited for the young married couple.

In the fall of 1944 Laura returned to the family farm, bringing her husband with her. She took up teaching and attended classes during the summer at Kearney State College. Working the farm they raised five daughters all of which later became nurses.

After moving to Illinois in the late 60's, Calvin worked at sheet metal and as a guard at the Case plant. A sudden heart attack ended his life December 15, 1977. After his passing Laura returned to Nebraska and was remarried to Ed McPherrin of Stapleton. Ed also procedeed her in death and she moved into North Platte where she lived with her daughter.

Laura was a dedicated teacher and loved working with young children. She relished time spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She also enjoyed sewing and making quilts. Each of the grandchildren cherishes a handmade quilt made especially for them.

Laura was devoted to her church and made many quilts for missionaries. She enjoyed visiting with friends and talking about the happenings of the hour. Her memories will be forever cherished by those whose lives she touched.

Survivors included her five daughters, Mary (Kenneth) Robbins of Alliance, NE, Donna (Myron) Kugler of Colorado Springs, CO, Kathy (Jack) Andersen of Lakeside, NE, Ruomi Lewis of North Platte, NE, Jo Ann (Kenneth) Rundback of Stapleton, NE; Grandchildren Amy (Rich) Campbell, Jennie (Troy) Brehm, Joel (Corrina) Robbins, Tony (Kendra) Cutler, Darcy (Darrel) Leistritz, Jason (Melissa) Andersen and Bryce Rundback, and several Great Grandchildren. Her parents and two husbands preceded her in death.