Lois Florein Burnside Huisenga

Lois Florein Burnside Huisenga, born July 14, 1940, in Casper, Wyoming, she passed away on March 13, 2026 surrounded by the love of the family she cherished so deeply. She was the daughter of Grace and Lloyd Burnside and carried with her throughout her life the strength, independence, and generosity that defined her upbringing.

Lois was raised on a dairy farm, an experience that shaped much of who she became. Farm life instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for animals and the land. It also nurtured her lifelong love of cooking, where she learned early how to create delicious meals from the simplest and freshest ingredients.

She was the first in her family to earn a college degree, setting an example that her children, grandchildren, cousins, nieces, and nephews would proudly follow. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Southeast Missouri State University, beginning a life defined by hard work, resilience, and a commitment to serving others. Over the years she wore many hats - teacher, business owner, cattlewoman, and nurse. She approached each with determination and compassion, always believing that hard work and kindness could change someone's path. Within the communities touched by her businesses, she became known for giving people a chance when they needed one most, offering not only employment but encouragement and support.

Those who knew Lois not only recognized her remarkable work ethic, but also her extraordinary talents. She had a gift for creating beauty and comfort wherever she went. An exceptional seamstress, Lois could design and sew clothing and décor that looked as if it had come from the finest boutique. In the kitchen, she had an unmatched ability to transform simple ingredients into memorable meals. Family and friends rarely left her home hungry; she could make a feast from very little and took great joy in feeding those she loved.

Lois also had a deep love for animals and farm life. As a young woman she showed horses in fairs and attended rodeos, developing a lifelong connection with animals of all kinds. Later in life, she bred and raised cattle, embracing the life of a cattlewoman with pride and dedication. Whether it was a horse, calf, or a stray in need of care, Lois had a natural ability to nurse animals back to health and give them the attention they needed to thrive.

Lois lived most of her life in southwest Missouri, the place she proudly called home. Her love of Missouri, however, did not diminish her curious nature. Although her roots were firmly planted, she loved to travel and welcomed opportunities to see new places and experience new adventures.

Lois was, above all, devoted to her family. She is survived by three of her children: Angela (Rich) Neria, Lyndsey Brinkerhoff Normand, and Joshua Huisenga; nine of her grandchildren: Callaway, Noah, Montana, Abby, Shelby, Phoenix, Brooks, Bryn, and Breckyn; and two great-grandchildren, David and Theodore. Lois was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Natalie, and her precious grandson, Ahmed. She was immensely proud of her children and grandchildren and took great joy in their educational achievements and professional successes. Her influence helped shape in them the same strong work ethic and compassion that guided her own life.
Those who knew Lois will remember a woman who could accomplish anything she set her mind to. She could mend what was broken, be it a garment, a struggling animal, or a person in need of encouragement. Her home will always be remembered as a place of warmth, creativity, and laughter, where sewing projects, fresh meals, and animals were a part of daily life. She had a remarkable way of turning little into plenty, caring for what others often overlooked, and making life more beautiful for everyone around her.

A visitation will be held Tuesday, March 17, 2026 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the Brenner Mortuary chapel. Following the visitation at 2:30 PM, a graveside service will be held at the Nashville Cemetery in Nashville, Missouri. In lieu of flowers please feel free to send a donation in the name of Lois' grandson, Ahmed Stipanovic, to: The Colorado Children's Hospital 13123 E 16th Avenue, Box 045, Aurora, CO 80045 and or can be left in care of Brenner Mortuary. Services are under the direction of Brenner Mortuary, 114 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS, 66762.

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