Laura Lee Bakken (1951–2025)

Laura Lee Bakken, affectionately known as "Mimi," passed away peacefully on June 12, 2025, in Purcellville, Virginia, surrounded by loved ones. She was 74.

Born on March 7, 1951, in Uniondale, New York, Laura married her high school sweetheart, William J. Bakken, and together they built a life grounded in family, service, and adventure. During Bill's Army career, the couple was stationed in Japan and South Korea, where they raised their children, Kirsten and Soren, during their early school years. These experiences sparked in Laura a lifelong love of travel, culture, and adaptability — qualities she carried with her throughout her life.

Professionally, Laura served for over a decade with the United States Central Intelligence Agency, and she remained dedicated to its mission long after her formal retirement. Discreet and principled, she approached her work with the same sense of commitment that defined her personal life.

Laura was an accomplished cellist and an avid bridge player. A lifelong Episcopalian, she was deeply involved in her church community and known for her generosity, quick wit, and sharp mind. She gave her time and heart freely — whether volunteering, mentoring, or simply showing up for the people she loved. Her unapologetic sense of humor and candid nature were hallmarks of a life lived honestly and fully.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William, in 2000, and by her parents, Robert and Elaine Braun.

She is survived by her sister, Monica Carloni, and brother-in-law, John Carloni; her children, Kirsten Jenkins and Soren Bakken; her daughter-in-law, Sheri Bakken; her nephews, Guido Carloni and his wife Meghan, and Robert Carloni and his wife Erin; her sister-in-law, Cookie Boehm, and her husband Fred; and her cherished grandchildren: Madelyn and Virginia Jenkins, and Oliver and Erik Bakken. She also leaves behind her adored great-nieces and nephews — Nolan, Maeve, Ronan, and Olivia — each a bright reflection of the next generation and a source of deep family pride.

A memorial service will be held at noon on Friday, June 20, at St. David's Episcopal Church in Ashburn, Virginia. While the family requests no flowers or donations, those wishing to honor Laura's memory may consider supporting causes close to her heart:
St. David's Outreach: www.sdlife.org/direct-contribution
Shriners Hospitals for Children: donate.lovetotherescue.org