Lawrence L. Katze, age 84, of Pardeeville, WI entered the gates of Heaven May 21, 2025. He was born to Peter and Anna (Dummann) Katze February 1, 1941, in a rural farmhouse in Scott Township of Columbia County, Wisconsin. 

He attended Cambria High School and then served in the Army National Guard during the Berlin Crisis. He married the love of his life, Helen “Sue” Udell on October 7, 1961. Their marriage was blessed with three children: Darcy (Scott) Sommers, Pardeeville; Peter Katze, Pardeeville; and Darla (Bobby) Schack, Rio.

He was a proud grandfather and affectionately known as “Grampy” to Bradley (Sabina) Schack, Rio; Cory (Danielle) Schack, Pardeeville; Adam Katze (Ashlyn Austin), Rio; and a step-granddaughter Samantha Draves, Eau Claire.

Lawrence was known for his hard work ethic and his love of the outdoors. He was also known for cutting trees and wood for people in the area. It was his passion, and his kids referred to him as “Loggin Larry”. He worked at GIC/Everbrite in Pardeeville, WI for many years and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved his Savior and served Him by helping those in need. He was never happier than when he could help a neighbor with their lawn, trimming shrubs, or clearing their driveway of snow. Providing for his family was very important to him. He always had a very large garden when he and Sue were raising their children. He was a lifelong member of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Pardeeville. He served his Lord and congregation in various capacities over the years. The Christian Day School was especially important to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; brother George Katze; sisters Pauline Larson and Patricia Wieczorek; daughter-in-law Kristine Katze; grandson Hunter Katze; brothers-in-law, Gene Larson, Dennis Wieczorek, Harold “Skip” Udell; nephews Ricky Larson, Tim Larson, Ralph Katze; and niece Kathy Katsma. He is survived by his children and grandchildren; brother Harry (Arlene) Katze, Pardeeville; sisters- in-law Sally (Dale) Moore, Stevens Point, Kathy (Tom) Stanek, Hillsboro, Darlene Udell, Rio; brother-in-law Raymond Udell, Jr., Lake Mills; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends.

Memorial Service will be held Saturday, July 12 at 11 AM at St. John Lutheran Church in Pardeeville with Rev. James Plocher officiating. Visitation will be held from 9 AM until the time of service at the church. Memorials may be made to St. John Lutheran Church in Larry's memory. The family wishes to thank all his wonderful neighbors/friends on Roosevelt Street and Pardeeville Village workers who made Lawrence’s days enjoyable. Thank you also to Pastor Plocher, Cody Brunet, and Dr. Kelly Coker and their staff for their care. Thank you to the Columbia County Sheriff’s Department and Medical Examiner for their kind help at the time of his passing.