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.
15 Comments To "Lurlene Grace Bressler"
#1 Comment By Marjorie Slaughter On June 27, 2025 @ 9:01 am
Condolences to the Bressler family.
#2 Comment By Tom Gaddis On June 27, 2025 @ 4:17 pm
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Tom and Laura Gaddis
#3 Comment By Marlis Slater On June 27, 2025 @ 4:26 pm
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
#4 Comment By Steve Boese On June 27, 2025 @ 6:38 pm
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.
#5 Comment By Dave O’Malley On June 27, 2025 @ 7:12 pm
Wes and family, you’re in our thoughts and we share our condolences for your loss. Dave and Jenn.
#6 Comment By Lori Dockter On June 28, 2025 @ 10:54 am
Darren, Dan and Family I am so very sorry to hear this. Prayers of peace to you all.
#7 Comment By Kay Kohler, M D On June 28, 2025 @ 1:09 pm
I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Lurlene for many years, and she was delightful. RIP, Lurlene.
#8 Comment By Tammy Comer On June 29, 2025 @ 12:21 am
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.
#9 Comment By Ann Benson Palomba On June 29, 2025 @ 10:57 am
So very sorry for your loss. I enjoyed the years we worked together at the peds clinic.
#10 Comment By Linda goldman On June 30, 2025 @ 7:30 am
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 .
#11 Comment By Cliff Smith On July 3, 2025 @ 3:35 pm
Fly high Lurlene, enjoyed flying with you. Cliff Smith.
#12 Comment By Anonymous On July 4, 2025 @ 10:03 am
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.
#13 Comment By T.J.Poll On July 7, 2025 @ 1:00 am
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.
#14 Comment By Nancy Lockwood On July 7, 2025 @ 7:12 pm
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.
#15 Comment By Kate. D Harrop On July 9, 2025 @ 10:35 am
My sympathy .She was a very nice person.