Laura Bishop

Laura Jean Duerksen- Bishop was born July 4th, 1947, to Menno and Lydia Duerksen of Lehigh, KS at Bethesda Hospital in Goessel, KS. Laura grew up on a farm in a Christian home where she learned to lean on the Lord. Her childhood was filled with many good times where she enjoyed roller skating, riding a shetlon pony, riding her bike, and helping her mother cook and bake. In her teen years she would help her father with harvest and field work.

She spent 12 years attending Lehigh Schools and graduated in 1965. She enjoyed her years in school, and was even crowned Homecoming Queen her Senior year of high school. She then went on to Tabor College for one year, and graduated from Sid's Beauty School in Hutchinson, KS.

She was married and had 4 children: Justin Bishop (Alyce); Melody DiJulio (Shane); Kristin Knox (Mike); and Angela Bishop. She has 8 grandchildren: Justin, Jessica, Ethan, Hunter, Weston, Maverick, Owen, Parker and by marriage Andriena, Chyna, Joselynn, as well as 4 great grandchildren: Macey, Ryker, Loki, and Evie; brother, Gary (Janet) Duerksen of Lehigh.

She was active in various churches with Childrens church, Sunday school, putting together Sunday service bulletins and announcements, and serving on the Church board.

She held various jobs thru the years including hairdresser, assistant, secretary, and working with adults with special needs in addition to her volunteering at church. She worked hard to support her family while she was able.

Her favorite scriptures were Proverbs 3:5-6 & Isaiah 41:10. Her prayers were concerning the salvation of all her children and grandchildren, and wanting a revival in the U.S. to put God back in the nation. Her greatest desire was to have her family and friends with her in heaven where she said she will be "walking and pain free".