Laura Lee Mack, 59, a lifelong resident of Charlotte, Vermont passed away on January 16th from complications related to cancer. Born on November 15, 1966 to Wilma and Richard Preston. Laura grew up in Charlotte and carried its sense of community, independence, and open fields with her throughout life.

A 1984 graduate of Champlain Valley Union High School, Laura played on the soccer and softball teams and was known for her lively spirit. Teachers often joked that she should spend less time socializing and more time listening—but in true Laura fashion, she proved that her way worked out just fine.

Laura began her career as an Executive Assistant at Artec, advancing to Champion Jogbra, and then Chittenden Bank. Though she excelled in the office environment, her true calling emerged when she created Northfork Horse Farm in Charlotte. Her mother once told her she could have a horse when she was married and had a place of her own- Laura made her dream a reality. The farm became her world. She raised and cared for countless horses, forming bonds that shaped her days and filled her heart and soul. She was an accomplished rider and show jumper, happiest in the barn or the ring, always surrounded by the animals she loved. Laura loved all her animals, dogs, cats, rabbits, and for a while, a goat.

Alongside her devotion to the farm, Laura raised and cared for her family. Determined and stubborn in the best way, and not one to accept "no" when she set her mind to something. She lived life with enthusiasm and a contagious sense of fun. Laura approached her days with purpose, humor, and a readiness to jump in—whether it was a project, a family getaway or simply adding more butter to whatever she was eating. Life was not always easy, but she was brave and persevered through it all. She loved warm weather and looked forward to a yearly trip to the Dominican Republic to enjoy more sun and the ocean.

Laura is survived by her husband, Steven Mack; their daughter, Dallas and her fiancé, Joe. Her brother, Ward, his wife Debbie, and her sister Diana. As well as numerous nieces and nephews and a large extended Mack family led by her mother-in-law Mary Helen. She was predeceased by two children, Melissa and Trevor, as well as her parents, Wilma and Richard.

Laura's legacy is one of passion, perseverance, and wholehearted living. She will be remembered for her unstoppable spirit and the joy she brought to every barn aisle and conversation.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring, location and time to be announced.