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It is with heavy hearts we share Lt. Col Lawrence E. Lauer (Ret.) “Larry” passed away peacefully on June 26, 2020. The beloved husband of over 60 years to Mary Roberta Lauer, devoted father to Charlotte, Larry Jr., Mark, and Steven, kind and gentle Opa to his three grandchildren Lawrence, Charlotte, and Hall, favorite Uncle to his many nephews and nieces, friend, fishing buddy, and mentor to many, many more. Born in Freiburg, Pennsylvania to Charles & Dorothy Lauer, Larry spent is formative years in Buffalo, New York studying at St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute, crewing at the West Side Rowing Club and moving along to run track, study Aerospace Science, and graduate from the University of Buffalo in 1960.

Soon after, he married the love of his life and was commissioned as an officer in the United States Air Force (USAF). He spent his USAF career focusing on photo-reconnaissance intelligence, rising to the rank of Lt. Colonel and Intelligence Director for the 1st Special Operations Wing in Hurlburt Field, Florida. 

His duties took him to far off exotic lands, including tours in Vietnam and assignments in Japan, Germany, Guam, South America and States coast to coast across the USA.

Larry was an avid runner, completing marathons around the world and enjoying frequent 5k’s with his wife and children. His love of bass fishing was the stuff of legend, often getting up before dawn to launch his boat “Bassin’ Waggin” to make the catch of the day.

A talented leader, a guiding presence for his family, and a gentle, patient man. Larry is survived by his wife, Mary Roberta Lauer; his sons Larry Jr., Mark, and Steven; as well as his grandchildren Lawrence, Charlotte, and Hall. To send condolences to the family, please visit our website at www.hunterallenmyhand.com

Higgins Funeral Home at Hunter-Allen-Myhand, 506 Hill Street, LaGrange GA 30241, 706-884-5626