Rapid River, MILauren V. “Laurie” Grobe, 95, of 7920 Highway 2, Rapid River, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday morning November 15, 2016 at the St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba from complications of a fall.
Lauren was born June 23, 1921 in Benedict, Nebraska the son of Lewis and Eve (Fankhandle) Grobe. He was raised in Racine, WI and he received the Eagle Scout from Boy Scouts of America. He served his country in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1946 where he was a photographer. Upon his honorable discharge, he was awarded the Army of Occupation Medal, Germany, European-African Middle Eastern Service Medal, American Theatre Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. He returned to Kenosha, WI where he worked for American Motor Company. He later, along with his twin brother Larry traveled and entertained with their band “Two Schmoos” throughout the Midwest. While traveling the U.P. he met and later married the former Margaret “Ruthie” Murchie on December 11, 1954 at the Rapid River Congregational Church.
They made their home in Appleton, WI where he owned and operated Laurie’s Upholstering. He later obtained his Journeyman Electrician card and worked for A.M.C which later became Chrysler Corporation. Following his retirement from Chrysler, Laurie and Margaret “Ruthie” returned to Rapid River.
Laurie was a member of the Calvary Lutheran Church in Rapid River where he sang in the choir. He was also a member of the Rapid River American Legion Post #301, Post #1865 V.F.W. in Kenosha, WI, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and past member of the Rapid River Lions Club.
Laurie was a man of many talents, if he didn’t know how to fix something, he would figure out a way. Laurie was an excellent golfer and was an assistant golf pro. He was an accomplished Brewmaster and an avid Green Bay Packer Fan. He enjoyed bowling and he especially enjoyed spending time with his family.
In addition to his wife of 61 years, Margaret “Ruthie”, survivors include:
Son: Rob Grobe of Rapid River
Daughter: Shelly (Hans) Wagner of Gladstone
Numerous nieces, nephews and friends also survive.
In addition to his parents, his brothers, Larry, Byron and Reynold, and sister, Twila Thomas preceded Laurie in death.
Laurie’s family will receive friends on Saturday November 19, 2016 from 10:00 am to 12:45 pm at the Calvary Lutheran Church in Rapid River. Military rites conducted by Rapid River American Legion Post #301 will follow at 12:45 pm. Funeral services celebrating the life of Lauren V. Grobe will follow at 1:00 PM at the Calvary Lutheran Church with Rev. Stephen Gauger officiating. Burial will follow at the Rapid River Cemetery in Rapid River. Luncheon will follow at the Calvary Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall.