Obituary of Laura Dyan Sever

In Loving Memory of Laura Dyan Sever September 5, 2024 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Laura, a beautiful daughter, granddaughter, sister, mother, niece, aunt, cousin, friend, and devoted activist. Born on September 29, 1978, in Duluth, MN, Laura spent her early years in this beautiful city before growing up in the Twin Cities. She found her passion work supporting adults with developmental disabilities, a testament to her compassionate spirit. In 1998, Laura returned to Duluth, where she felt a deep connection to the beauty of Lake Superior and the vibrant community around her. Tragically, on May 1, 2007, Laura faced an unimaginable challenge following a horrific car accident that left her paraplegic. The prognosis was grim, yet Laura met this adversity with an unwavering strength, remarkable determination, tenacity, humility, courage, and grace. Her heart was made of gold, shining brightly even in the darkest of times. Laura was an intelligent, articulate, and engaging young woman who cherished her family above all else. Her passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the lives of those who love her. Laura found joy in everyday moments—snuggling and reading stories with her sons, playing games with her family, organizing her home, and playing cryptoquip puzzles after Sunday brunch. She delighted in good music, delicious food, dancing, and every gathering with loved ones. Before her accident, Laura embraced the great outdoors, reveling in activities like skating, biking, canoeing, volleyball, hiking, swimming, cross-country skiing, and horseback riding. She cherished the beauty of Duluth and Lake Superior, finding joy in the crisp air, snow, and scenic walks along the boardwalk. After the accident, healing and well-being became Laura's primary goals, fueled by her deep desire to spend time with her family and friends. She eagerly embraced all opportunities to connect, cherish each precious moment, and create lasting memories. Determined to walk again and finish her degree, Laura believed her dreams were within reach as she began to regain feeling in her feet and legs. She aspired to share her journey to inspire women everywhere to overcome challenges and lead fulfilling, vibrant lives. Laura is preceded in death by her father, Harold D. Robinson, Jr.; her beloved grandparents, Millicent and John Sever, and Harold Robinson, Sr.; her aunt Jeanmarie Sever; and uncles Michael and Patrick Robinson. She will forever be cherished, missed, and lovingly remembered by her mother, Catherine M. Sever; her sons, Timothy J. (Nathan) Sever-Taylor, Joseph W. Reed, and Matthew R. Reed; her sisters, Marie Merchant and Lindsay (Steve) Schafer; step-sister Dawn Johnson; aunts, uncles, nieces, cousins, grandmother, and countless friends—everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. In celebrating Laura’s life, we honor her spirit and the love she brought to all of us. May her memory be a guiding light, reminding us to live with the same passion and grace she exemplified. A Celebration of Life will be held on October 27, 2024 from 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM at Cremation Society of Minnesota, 7110 France Ave S, Edina, MN 55435. Updates about this celebration and more information about Laura and her accident can be found at www.caringbridge.org/visit/laurasever