Lauri was born on September 11, 1943 to Lawrence Francis and Velva Marene Stevenson Rosvall in Salt Lake City, Utah. She died on November 23, 2025 of a stroke at the age of 82.
Lauri grew up in Salt Lake City, graduating from East High School in 1961; and where she remained for her entire life raising and loving her children unconditionally, caring for family members, and cultivating life-long friendships. She married Bob Ward in 1966, later divorced in 1983. Lauri had a successful career in retail and as a Sales Representative for numerous giftware companies.
Lauri lived a life full of color—mostly yellow—layered with laughter, creativity, compassion, and a deep appreciation for beauty in all its forms. She loved hosting all kinds of celebrations; often and generously; creating spaces where everyone felt welcomed, seen, and special. What brought her some of her greatest joy was creating moments of kindness and wonder—helping others feel that life is beautiful, meaningful, and worth celebrating. Christmas held a special place in her heart, not just as a holiday but as a season of gathering, generosity, and making people feel cherished.
Lauri was a collector—not simply of things, but of meaning—each item held a story, a memory, or a spark of delight. Her legacy lives on in festive decorations, thoughtful details, well-loved objects, and the enduring reminder that making people feel special is one of life’s greatest gifts; but most of all—the loved she poured over her family, friends, friend’s families, and so many others.
Preceded in death by her parents Larry and Velva Rosvall and sisters Sandra Bonner and Robin Horne; and many cats that she loved dearly. Survived by her sisters Cheryl Rosvall and Merilee Kohler; sons Rob (Julie) Ward, and Jeff (Christina) and her cherished grandsons Cameron and Dylan Ward.
A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor on Monday, December 29, 2025 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the parking on the north side of the building.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of her favorite charities below or a charity or cause that is important to you.
Utah Volunteers of America, Youth Resource Center – https://www.voaut.org/get-help/youth-homeless-services
Make a Wish Foundation – https://wish.org/utah
Humane Society of Utah – https://www.utahhumane.org/
