February 11, 2024 – Washington County, WI – Lawrence “Larry” H. Wetzel, Jr., passed away in his sleep on Thursday, February 1, 2024, in the care of Samaritan Health Center and Allay Hospice staff, as a result of declining health due to Alzheimer’s disease.
Lawrence, known as “Larry” or “Sonny” to family and friends, was born in March 31, 1937 to the late Sophie H. and Lawrence H. Wetzel, Sr. in Milwaukee WI, the oldest of three children.
In 1958, shortly after being honorably discharged from the Army, he met and fell in love with Rosemary Jean (nee Reinhard), and on November 22, 1958 they were united in marriage. They made their home in Milwaukee for a time, eventually moving to West Bend in 1973 where they brought up their family and remain to this day. The family were long time parishioners of Holy Angels, where all four children graduated grade school. The tradition would continue with their youngest grandson, Christopher, also graduating from there this past spring.
His memory is held in the hearts of his daughter Denise (Neal) Stoffel of Campbellsport, and sons Michael (Julie) of Winneconne, and Scott (Linda) of West Bend. His legacy continues in eight wonderful people and their spouses who called him Grandpa and eleven amazing young people who knew him as Grandpa Great. He was so proud of all of them and often said so. Preceding him on this journey was his beloved wife of 64 years, Rosie, who passed away in October of 2023 and his youngest son, Christopher “Chris” in July of 2022.
Additionally, he survived by his sister Margaret “Peggy” and husband Jeff Lindsay of Sun City, AZ and sister-in law Mary Lee Wetzel (wife of brother Richard, deceased) of Shelby Township, MI; and on the Reinhard side, two sisters-in-law, Phyllis Cooper of Wausau, WI and June Reinhard of Medford, MA as well as numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
He leaves behind many good friends, who will recall the Saturday afternoons sitting around the kitchen table visiting, trips up north, or evenings out with fond memories.
The family wishes to thank all of those who cared for and supported both Dad and Mom during the last few years as their health began to decline.
A celebration of life is in planning, details will be posted when available.
