Loreen "Lori" Pickett

Loreen “Lori” Pickett, of Fargo, North Dakota, passed away on March 23, 2026, at the age of 62. Lori was born on January 13, 1964, to Sandra “Sandy” Skjaret and Roy Hanson. She was raised in Fargo by her mother and stepfather, Roger Skjaret, where she grew up with her five siblings and built herself a life rooted in family, friendship, and community.

Lori was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She shared a beautiful life with her husband, John, whom she married on October 3, 2003. For the past 23 years, she proudly embraced her role as John’s “Beautiful Bride,” a title she carried with love and joy every day.

She was the proud mother of four daughters, a cherished grandmother to her 13 grandchildren, and a loving great-grandmother to her precious great-granddaughter. Her greatest happiness came from time spent with her family, especially in her role as “Gramma,” where her love, laughter, and warmth created lasting memories for generations.

Lori dedicated 29 years of her life working as a bartender at Chub’s Pub in Fargo, where she was also known to many as “Gramma” and became a familiar and beloved face. She often joked about her title as an “Alcohol Transfer Technician,” but her true gift was her ability to connect with people. Whether it was a cold drink, cooking her famous soups for a game, or just a listening ear, she genuinely loved “serving the people,” and her kindness and humor made everyone feel welcome.

Outside of work, Lori found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved camping at “the Farm” with her husband and their closest friends, creating many cherished memories. She had a special love for her indoor plants and took great care in feeding the many critters that visited her yard, reflecting her gentle and nurturing spirit. Lori also had a thoughtful tradition of sending greeting cards, always making sure the people she loved felt remembered and cared for on every special occasion.

Lori is survived by her loving husband, John; her daughters, Cassandra “Cassie,” Katelyn “Katie,” Carrie, and Kayla; her grandchildren, Elijah, Austyn-Jean “AJ,” Rylan, Mariah, Tyla, Kaiden, Conner, Kennedy, Isaiah, Josiah, Illiana, and Marianna; her great-granddaughter, Maliah; and her siblings, Russell (Beverly), Sheila, Michelle “Micki,” Rhonda, and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Roger Skjaret II.

A celebration of Lori’s life will be held on April 3, 2026, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Boulger Funeral Home in Fargo.

Lori will be remembered for her quick wit, her big heart, and her unwavering love for her family and friends. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and deep connection that will continue to live on in all who knew her.

In her own words, which her family will carry with them always: “Love you 40 million.”