Lawrence Edward Guggenbuehl

Lawrence Edward Guggenbuehl, 94, a lifelong member of the La Crosse community, passed away in his home surrounded by his loving family on June 18, 2024. He was born in his Northside home on March 13, 1930, the son of George John and Regina Christina (Dolle) Guggenbuehl. He married Lois Fries, a Southside native, on November 10, 1951, at St. Joseph the Workman Cathedral in La Crosse.

Larry was raised in a traditional Catholic family, attending St. James Grade School and Aquinas High School. His high school sweetheart, Lois, became his lifelong partner, with a marriage that would last for over 71 years until she passed in 2023. His dedication and deep love for her served as a perfect model for his children and formed the foundation of a very close, loving family.

Larry developed a strong work ethic at a young age and got his first job “setting pins” at Pla-Mor Lanes prior to working at Allis Chalmers for a short time before being drafted and serving with the US Eighth Army in Korea. Upon his return, he spent the rest of his career in numerous positions at Trane Company where he developed many friendships. His military service left a lasting impression and his dedication to and love for his country never wavered. He enjoyed working with the VFW on numerous volunteer efforts and also belonged to the American Legion. In addition, he was a member of the Military Honor Squad at veterans’ funerals and championed the Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy Awards Programs in the region. He was honored to participate in the Freedom Honor Flight.

Larry and Lois raised five children with good old-fashioned values. Family was everything, second only to his Catholic faith and his dedication to Lois. They loved to travel and felt that immersing their children in other cultures was the best way to teach them about life. Every summer after the last book was closed, they would pack up the pop-up camper and station wagon and travel to a destination far away from home, ultimately reaching nearly every one of the 50 states and visiting countless National Parks, Monuments, and treasures along the way. Camping taught their children humility, as well as a love for nature, simplicity, and the value of family. Each trip would be filled with planned educational experiences and endless adventures. The cottage on Loon Lake was also a special spot for family gatherings, the refreshing outdoors, and endless experiences with wildlife and nature.

When Larry had free time for himself, he loved to paint. Over the course of his life he produced hundreds of beautiful paintings, many of which are treasured by his children and grandchildren. In his early years he was an accomplished woodworker, whipping out amazing cut-out figures of everything from Santa to floppy eared bunnies and even a complex doll house for his daughters in their youth. He loved gardening and could spend hours in solitude weeding, pruning and watering. He loved to watch things grow and did whatever he could to provide a nourishing and healthy environment.

Upon retirement, Larry and Lois would travel the world and experience many of Europe’s historic sites. Visiting Switzerland and tracking his genealogy was one of many highlights. They also enjoyed taking their children on cruises in the latter years and found the uninterrupted time precious. There was also plenty of time for their grandchildren, often attending school functions, sporting and musical events, and
significant milestones along the way. Larry became a fan of whatever his grandchildren took an interest in. He loved them beyond words.

Larry’s faith as a Catholic was the core of his being. He was always active in the church and served on numerous councils, boards, and volunteer projects. He loved singing in the choir, serving Mass, and dedicating his time and treasure to those in need. Attending Mass provided him the greatest satisfaction, even in his final weeks, as he would drive to church and sneak in the side door to take in a Mass. He was blessed with excellent health his entire life and remained very active up until his final two weeks. One could say that his lonely heart and strong desire to reconnect with Lois contributed to his final passing. He left a lasting impression on all who knew him and will be missed by many, especially his family.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents George and Regina and his spouse Lois. He was the last of his siblings and was preceded by his sisters Delores (Doug) Schindler and Patricia (Larry) Breen and brothers Richard, Robert (Karen), James (Karen). He is survived by his children: Cindy (Jeff) Koeller; Terry (Shelley Smith) Guggenbuehl; Mary Beth (James) Backstrom; David (Merri Jo) Guggenbuehl, and Susan Guggenbuehl. His grandchildren include David Brueggen, Kristi (Matt) Larson, Andrea Guggenbuehl, Nick (Jackie) Guggenbuehl, Mike (Victoria) Guggenbuehl, Annalise (Son) Nguyen, and Craig Backstrom. He had one precious great-granddaughter, Everly Nguyen.

Services will be held on Thursday, June 27, 2024 at Mary Mother of the Church in La Crosse with visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 and services beginning at 11:00. A luncheon will follow in the church hall.

Memorials may be directed to Catholic Charities of La Crosse, Mary Mother of the Church, or the charity of your choice.