Lurlene was born on November 30, 1942 to Harry and Grace Pickens and she died peacefully in her sleep June 21, 2025 after developing Parkinson’s with dementia.
Lurlene spent 3 elementary years in Puerto Rico while her parents were Christian missionaries there. The rest of her childhood was spent in southern California, graduating high school and earning a nursing degree from Los Angeles County General Hospital nursing program. She married Wesley Bressler early in the nursing program and they raised 3 sons, Daniel, Darren and Benjamin.
Following graduation from her nursing program she worked in nursing in southern California until moving to Bozeman, MT to pursue a more rural lifestyle. After developing several precious friendships in Bozeman she followed Wesley’s job opportunity to Laramie, WY where she spent her remaining years. She always appreciated having made the move to the Rocky Mountains where she enjoyed exploring the Snowy Range with her family. While in Laramie, Lurlene worked as a pediatric nurse and later became the first nurse hired at the ARK where she developed many lasting relationships with her clients.
Lurlene had a lifelong passion for aviation. She earned her pilots license while in Bozeman and flew at every opportunity. Lurlene and Wes spent many hours flying together and went on to build a kit plane after Wes retired. After her retirement from nursing, Lurlene enjoyed her time as a weather observer at the local airport where she could spend her days surrounded by planes and pilots.
Lurlene was preceded in death by her parents Harry and Grace as well as her sister Carolyn. She is survived by husband Wesley, sons Daniel (Geri), Darren (Pamela), and Benjamin (Heather), 7 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. No formal services are planned however her ashes will be scattered in the Snowy Range following a family farewell service.
My sympathy .She was a very nice person.
So Sorry to hear about Lurlene's passing. I have many many fond memories of her time with the UUFL and her and Wes's time spent with our son Ethan and taking him out to see their plane when it was under construction.
My condolenses to Wes, Darren, Pam & the Bressler family for you loss of Lurlene. She was a wonderful, genuine, and caring nurse. May Peace comfort your hearts at this time.
The Albany County Nurse Honor Guard sends their sincere condolences and recognizes her dedication to the nursing profession and the difference she made in peoples lives.
Fly high Lurlene, enjoyed flying with you. Cliff Smith.
I so fondly remember your family at Fellowship activities, especially the Easter when you brought the bunnies to the Sunday service. I’m very sorry for your loss .
So very sorry for your loss. I enjoyed the years we worked together at the peds clinic.
Dear Wes and Family: So sad to hear of Lurlene’s passing. May your warm memories comfort you during this difficult time. Tammy and the Staff at the Eppson Center.
I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Lurlene for many years, and she was delightful. RIP, Lurlene.
Darren, Dan and Family I am so very sorry to hear this. Prayers of peace to you all.
Wes and family, you’re in our thoughts and we share our condolences for your loss. Dave and Jenn.
I’m so sorry to hear of Lurlene’s passing. Sometimes I call the Laramie Airport’s ASOS recording just to hear her voice. She was fortunate to have Wes and family to help care for her.
Few honors so great as to have met your family and spent “companion hours” with Lurlene in her final months and days. She’s left an indelible and cherished impression on my life. Sincerest condolences to Wes and the Bressler family during this time of loss. My heart goes out to you all. Warmly, Marlis
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Tom and Laura Gaddis
Condolences to the Bressler family.