Lorraine Auwaerter Bullock Obituary
Lorraine Auwaerter Bullock, beloved wife of Anthony N. Bullock III died Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at home surrounded by her family. Born in Philadelphia, PA, she was the daughter of Mary (Niznik) and Jacob F. Auwaerter.
She graduated from Philadelphia High School for Girls at top of her class, where she also excelled at gymnastics. She went on to graduate from West Chester Teacher's College (West Chester University) in 1952 with a major in Health and Physical Education. From 1948-1952 she was a member of Philadelphia Turnverein Gymnastic Club where she won many titles and was the leading candidate for the US Olympic team. Unfortunately, at the Olympic Trials she learned she was disqualified because she was considered a professional for being a Tumbling and Dance Instructor at Camp Canadensis for two summers. She continued her education with postgraduate studies at Temple University.
While at West Chester she met the love of her life, Anthony. The two were married on January 10, 1953. Their courtship blossomed into a marriage of 71 years with 6 children and moves from Cheyney, PA, to Philadelphia, PA, Fairfield, CT, Newburgh, NY, Dallas, TX, Lakewood, OH, Marblehead, MA, and finally settling in Manchester-by-the-Sea in 1968. With every move she immersed herself in the local community. While raising her children, she taught, she coached, she refereed, she volunteered and served on many civic boards, there was no "idol time" in Lorraine's life.
In 1975, she revived her teaching and coaching career in the Beverly school system. A dream opportunity became true when she was named head coach for the Varsity Girls Gymnastic team. In her second year at the helm she helped lead the team from last to first place winning the Northeastern Conference Gymnastic Title. Unfortunately, due to budget cuts in the school system, forced upon it, by the City of Beverly and a national recession, many teaching and coaching positions were eliminated, hers included.
The following year she joined the staff at Manchester Jr./Sr. High School. She became known as the "Super-Sub" (the students knew that when Mrs. "B" was the sub it was an actual class of learning). Her focus evolved into the Special Needs Education Program. The following are reflections from fellow teachers: "She was an island of calm and composure in our ocean of student chaos!"; "We were always astounded by her strength and fortitude. A wonderful role model for us all."; "She was considered a kind and caring teacher who always had a pleasant smile and caring tone."; "I have such fond memories of your mom being in my biology classroom, helping kids and taking notes for them. The kids would cluster around her. She could be counted on to remember exactly where we "ended up" last class and kept me on track!"; "Lorraine was truly respected and appreciated by her students and peers.".
Lorraine was a talented seamstress making her own clothes, from dress suits to ball gowns. Making Halloween costumes for her children and grandchildren and with 5 daughters, was also the go-to person for prom and bridal party dresses. Lorraine was active in many community associations and clubs; Manchester Women's Club, PTA, Sacred Heart Church, Girl Scouts, Meals on Wheels and many more. She also was a force on the tennis court well into her seventies. And you could always find Lorraine with her beloved Tony watching school and sporting events of their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She continued to be the Hornet's #1 fan even when her immediate family wasn't on the roster.
Lorraine leaves behind her children, Lorraine Schulte and (husband) Bernard, Marianne Coons and (husband) Loren, Deborah Brosch, Anthony IV and (wife) Kendra, Dee Wright and (husband) Doug; grandchildren (16), Stephen, Elizabeth, Whitney, Charlie, Ben, Skylar, Taylor, Hunter, Anneliese, Nicole, Chris, Chanel, Christina, Alix, Ryan, Peter; great-grandchildren (12), Odessa, Arden, Paxton, Kaelin, Lochlan, Finnegan, Rowan, Grace, Celia, Lily, Lucy, Helia and their spouses, and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her daughter, Susan and husband Stephen Brenan; her brother, Edward Auwaerter and wife Lila, Fred Auwaerter and wife Jean; and sister-in-law, Joan and husband CharlieMcShane.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, December 9, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church, 62 School Street, Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA 01944. Immediately following the mass, a reception to celebrate Lorraine's Life will be held in the Sacred Heart Church Parish Hall.
