Laura McManus Menard, member and benefactor of the Minnesota Senior Federation, passed away Sept. 26. Laura, mother of Sue Wyckoff and mother-in-law of Peter Wyckoff, founder and director of MnSF for 34 years, will long be remembered as a charter member of the Legacy Society and steadfast supporter of this organization. Peter Wyckoff acknowledged that her significant gifts to the organization also indicated strong support and affirmation of his work and dedication.

Laura was born in New York City, May 27, 1918 and grew up in Flushing, Long Island. She attended three colleges before ultimately graduating from Ohio State University with a degree in industrial arts, the first female to do so at OSU.

She married Albert Menard in December 1941 and had three children, Albert, Sue and Tappan. Laura lived in several areas around the country before moving to Roseville, Minn. in 1994. An active volunteer throughout her life, Laura worked with the Episcopal Church Women, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts as well as the MnSF.

Her memorial service included a quote from her...”I think we should give more dignity to people who work with their hands. We value the intellectuals, but we need the workers, too. All who do a good job should receive dignity.”

The Minnesota Senior Federation is grateful for your good work, Laura. We will miss you!