Gilbert D. Lawrenz passed away on January 4, 2025, at North Care Hospice House in North Kansas City, MO.
Gilbert was born on November 26, 1938, in Moline, IL, to Henry and J. Berneice Lawrenz of Hillsdale, IL. The family moved to the Morrison, IL, area in 1950. During his high school years he joined FFA (Future Farmers of America.) He graduated from Morrison High School in 1957. After high school, Gilbert worked on the family farm and coached Softball for a local 4-H team. He married Lois J. Sterenberg of Fulton, IL, on December 29, 1959. Gilbert and Lois farmed outside of Morrison for 34 years, where they raised their family. They joined Emmanuel Reformed Church and became active members. Gilbert taught Sunday School for several years and served in various positions within the church. While farming, Gilbert was an active member in Pork Producers, and sold Americana Seed Corn. After selling the farm, they moved into Morrison, and Gilbert worked in various jobs for local companies. He and Lois enjoyed roller skating, camping, boating, and fishing. In their later years together, Gilbert and Lois were seasonal campers at The Kings Camp in Chana, IL. Gilbert enjoyed woodworking and built picnic tables for the campground and items for family/friends. In his spare time, Gilbert enjoyed his other hobby of model trains. Most of all, he enjoyed helping others. In 2019, Gilbert sold his home and moved to Excelsior Springs, MO, to be near family. He became an active member of Salem Christian Union Church. In his later years, he enjoyed reading, puzzles, and Esther, his cat. Gilbert gave his life to Christ as a young teen. Overcoming several obstacles in life, Gilbert readily shared his testimony, about what God had done for him, with anyone he could.
Gilbert is survived by his daughter, Lori (Glen) Sams of Excelsior Springs; daughter-in-law, Renee (Mark) Willhite of Sterling, IL; four grandchildren, Jarod (Carrie) Sams of Wichita, KS, Jordan (Alexandria) Sams of Independence MO, Austin (Ashley) Lawrenz of Rock Falls, IL, and Patricia (Matt) Broshous of Sterling IL; 12 great-grandchildren.
Gilbert was proceeded in death by his wife, Lois Lawrenz; son, Gary Lawrenz; sister, Grace Poel; parents, Henry and J. Berneice Lawrenz; great-grandson, Callum Sams.
Visitation will be Saturday, January 11, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., at McDonald Funeral Home in Fulton, IL, with services to follow at 11:00; the Reverend Glen Sams will officiate.
Burial will conclude at Grove Hill Cemetery, Morrison, IL.
A Memorial has been established to the Salem Christian Union Church, in Excelsior Springs, MO. The family requests memorial contributions in lieu of flowers.