Laura Draper

Laura Marie "Weenie" Draper, 76, passed away on Friday January 9, 2026, at home, in Boise, Idaho. She was Born on July 9, 1949, in Shelley, Idaho, Laura lived a life marked by service, resilience, and joy.

Laura proudly served her country in the United States Air Force from 1970 to 1974. Following her military service, she dedicated two decades of her professional life to the Veterans Administration from 1989 until her retirement in 2009. Her commitment to supporting fellow veterans reflected her deep sense of duty and compassion.

A devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Laura found strength and community in her faith throughout her life. She was known for her infectious laughter—a sound that brought warmth and comfort to those around her—and for her love of flowers, music, and a well-timed joke. Laura also loved to shop at thrift stores and was an amazing gift giver.

In 1998, Laura moved to Pennsylvania where she married Merle Lucas. After his passing in 2015, she returned to Idaho to be closer to family and familiar roots.

Laura was survived by her three children: Anthony Kissell, Jack Draper, and Jill Spencer; as well as five siblings: Lawrence Mitchell, Robin Marshall, William (Bill) Mitchell, Tracie Marsh, and Tab Mitchell, and her 5 Grandchildren; Tristan Spencer, Christopher Spencer, Noah Kissell, Jonah Kissell, and Emma Kissell.

Laura was preceded in death by her biological parents Kenneth Mecham and Katherine Gooch; adoptive parents William Lawrence Mitchell and Frances Delores Mitchell and Christyne Mitchell; siblings David Mitchell, Linda Lee Mecham, Shirley Mecham, Bonnie Mecham, Peggy Mecham, Phyllis Mecham, Carol Jean Johnson, and Cathy Ann Johnson; and by her three husbands: Timothy Kissell, Larry C. Draper, and Merle Lucas.

Laura's legacy lives on through the laughter she shared and the lives she touched. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.