Born on February 26, 1948, in Rio de Janeiro, she was the daughter of the late Eric Chavez-Norris and Barbara Russo. She is preceded in death by her parents and beloved brother-in-law Leon Fowler.

Lorena was a diminutive lady, but she had a charismatic personality coupled with a smile that lit up the room which no one could deny. She endured strong personalities surrounding her yet she made her presence felt through her intelligence, wit and oft sharp tongue.

Lorena’s father had the wanderlust which was passed on to and benefitted her childhood. Born in Brazil, Lorena spent her childhood between the Northeast United States and Brazil. Lorena split time between Connecticut, Boston, back to Brazil and even lived a few blocks off Central Park in New York City. In her early teens Lorena was fortunate enough to travel with her paternal grandmother Vovo, an opera singer who shared the family passion for adventure. Lorena lived in London for a year, traveled to Switzerland, Paris and considered the Virgin Islands a “pit stop” on her way back from Europe to Brazil. By the age of 15 Lorena and her sister Leslie had logged more nautical miles on the SS McCormick Line than Leonardo and Kate could have ever imagined, even without the iceberg.

Lorena was a dedicated working mother of two. After her children became self- sufficient, she re-invested in herself by continuing her education and graduating Dean’s List with Honors from Rollins College with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology. Until retirement she spent her career as a Florida State Child Support Recovery Specialist.

Although almost eaten by a rat as an infant in Brazil, Lorena loved both nature and animals. She had a particular affinity for humming birds, King Cavalier pups and a soft spot for the many stray cats that found a home at her door.

Speaking of strays, Lorena is survived by her best friend and husband, Greg Bredenberg; Whom according to her son, is just some dude that showed up wearing daisy dukes and then never left some 37 odd years ago. She is also survived by her daughter, Brandie Della Giustina (Bill); her son, Brook Wood (Gretchen); her sister, Leslie Fowler; her sister-in-law, Claudia McCann; her granddaughter, Casey Della Giustina (Joey); her great-granddaughter, Mia Lorene; and niece / nephews Deidre, Micheal, Paul, Lee and Amanda. (It goes without saying that Lance, Elvis, Posie, Gigi & Charlie outrank all named above.)

A celebration of life will be held on August 30th 2 PM at the family ranch in Stony Point (3669 Stony Point Rd). This is indeed a celebration of life. In the now immortal words of Lorena, “You’re only old once. Enjoy life the few minutes you’ve got left.” All are welcome to attend and do just what the lady said, enjoy life; Celebrate her life and while we are at it, we will celebrate yours as well.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the SPCA or Cavalier Rescue Society.