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Lola M. Bullenkamp

Lola M. Bullenkamp, 86, of Westbrook passed away peacefully on Oct. 15. She was predeceased by her daughter Janet. Lola is survived by her loving husband Peter; daughter Marjorie Zotto of Madison and husband Stephen; two grandchildren, Matthew and Camille; her brother Arnold Brandt; and many nieces and nephews.

Peter and Lola met on a blind date. They fell in love and were married in a secret ceremony. They wore their rings on chains around their necks until they got married again in front of friends and family six months later. Peter and Lola kept this secret to themselves until they shared it on their 25th wedding anniversary. They were happily married for 65 years. Theirs was a true love story. They traveled extensively and shared many exciting adventures and immersed themselves in local culture wherever they traveled. Their favorite place to travel was Bali.

Lola was a registered nurse working in various roles. Her favorite position was working in a state facility where she took special care of adults with severe disabilities. Her most recent job, before retiring at the age of 65, was surveying nursing homes for the state of Maryland to ensure that they were compliant with state licensing requirements.

After retiring from their respective jobs, Lola and Peter moved from Maryland to Connecticut to be close to their family, thereby enriching the lives of their grandchildren.

Lola was very active in the Westbrook Senior Center where she enjoyed the company of many friends. She, along with Peter, volunteered for Meals on wheels for many years and also for Literacy Volunteers. Lola spent countless hours supporting her students and their families in any way she could. Lola was also a volunteer ombudsman for a local nursing home for several years. She and Peter showed their grandchildren by example how important it was to give to their community.

Lola was a kind, giving and caring person. She was of strong character. She had a special way about her and everyone who knew her loved her. She was thoughtful and friendly and truly cared about people. Lola always acknowledged the kindness of others. She knew the names of everyone at the places where she frequented and would take the time to speak to each one. As recently noted by a friend, she surely touched many lives that we will probably never know.

Lola was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. She will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved her.

Burial will be private at a future date.