Lorne Allan Semrau

Dr. Lorne Allan Semrau June 15, 1946 - April 12, 2017 Lorne A. Semrau died peacefully at home on April 12, 2017 in Jackson, Tennessee. Lorne was born June 15, 1946 in Camrose, Alberta, Canada to Reverend A.D. and Marjorie G. Semrau. He grew up in Camrose, with a few years in Chilliwack, British Columbia. He spent every summer working on his grandfather’s farm. In high school, Lorne was chosen to be part of the Royal Canadian Air Cadet program where he learned to fly and obtained his pilot’s license. Flying would be an important lifelong hobby. He attended Alberta Bible Institute for a Bachelor in Theology and then completed a Bachelor of Arts at Anderson College, Anderson, Indiana. Lorne completed a Master of Science at Indiana State University in 1971. He continued his education with a PhD in Clinical Psychology from Vanderbilt University. Lorne held a career as a private practice clinical psychologist for more than 40 years in Jackson. Early in his career, he focused on adolescent mental health, working in a variety of clinical and research settings in Nashville and around West Tennessee. From 1977 onwards, his main practice was held in Jackson. Later in his career, he worked in geriatric care with the group he founded, Superior Life Care Services. The group of psychologists, psychiatrist and social workers provided mental health and social support to nursing home patients in Tennessee, Mississippi and Alabama. Lorne was devoted to the church and church community, from the days of being a preachers kid until his death. In Jackson, Lorne was a member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and served on the vestry as well as the grounds committee. Using his woodworking skills, he contributed to the church, development of downtown Jackson and Memphis, and restored several homes. Lorne appreciated the ability to travel, explore new sports, and being on his farm with his family. Lorne is survived by his two daughters, Katherine (Christopher Adams) Semrau and Maggie Semrau; his brother, Don Semrau (Jean) and nephews: Bill (Tammy) and Robert (Amélie). Lorne was preceded in death by his parents, Reverend A.D. and Marjorie Semrau. Visitation will be held at 10 a.m. with a funeral service starting at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 21, 2017 at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 309 E. Baltimore Street, Jackson, Tennessee. A reception and celebration of Lorne's life will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Lorne Semrau to St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 309 E. Baltimore Street, Jackson, TN 38301; or in memory of Lorne Semrau designated for Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2525 West End Avenue, Suite 450, Nashville, TN 37203. Bells Funeral Home, 5342 College Street Bells, TN is in charge of arrangements. 731-663-2766 or www.bbfuneral.com.