Family memories of Louis Lorimier live on and on

To the editor:

When an event touches home, a great deal of enthusiasm, joy and pride is felt. That is exactly what I am feeling with the upcoming celebration and commemoration of the Lewis and Clark expedition and Don Louis Lorimier's hospitality in Cape Girardeau,

My aunt, Alma Kempe, was a Lorimier and often spoke of Louis Lorimier as being her favorite relative. Many and endless were the stories she told me in years past. A man of courage and ambition, Lorimier met with success in whatever he pursued.

The Red House replica to me will always be a reminder of the dear relative my aunt described Lorimier to be.

On occasion, I would visit the Old Lorimier Cemetery with my aunt where she always placed flowers on the graves of her family members. She often expressed the desire to be buried alongside them. My aunt cherished her Lorimier heritage.

Louis Lorimier mourned the loss of his first wife, who was an American Indian. Three sons were born to their union, one being Louis Lorimier Jr. After the rain, the sun will shine. Married a second time, Lorimier and his wife had two daughters.

Lorimier lived from 1748 to 1812. After a beautiful life on earth, he is now enjoying the bliss and happiness of his heavenly home.

Memories of Don Louis Lorimier will live on and on, especially with me.

PAULA E. KEMPE

Cape Girardeau