Lawrence Stolz, age 86, of rural Sykeston, ND, died during the early morning hours of Wednesday, January 19, 2011, at Golden Acres Manor in Carrington, ND.
Lawrence Otto Stolz was born on September 19, 1924, the son of Otto and Olga (Zinck) Stolz in rural Medina, ND. He grew up in the rural Medina and Jamestown area, attending rural area elementary schools and graduating from Jamestown High School. Lawrence’s childhood was filled with joyful memories of playing pranks on his mother and brothers. He became the “man of the house” at age 17, when his father, Otto, unexpectedly passed away. Lawrence carried on the duties of a farmer/businessman from then on.
On November 6, 1946, Lawrence married the love of his life, Viola Voth in Jamestown, ND. Together they made their home on their farm 12 miles south of Sykeston, and raised three children, Kelly, Laurie, and Larry. Family was important to him and his mischief and integrity were experienced many times by them.
Lawrence loved to socialize with friends and family. A wrong number dialed would, at times, result in a long visit. Although Lawrence was a hard worker, he took time to listen and talk with those around him. If anyone had a personal need, he was quick to drop his work. It was important to him to get the work done, but even more important, to see the fun in the moment. Lawrence enjoyed traveling and spent a few months in the winter in Mesa, AZ, not only because of the warmer winters, but that’s where many of his dear friends also were.
He had a twinkle in his eye and a peace in his heart that no doubt resulted from his faith in the Lord. While Lawrence was able, he spent time daily in prayer and Bible study. God’s word was a part of his daily living. Lawrence was a member of New Home Seventh-Day Adventist Church.
Lawrence is survived by his wife, Viola; a daughter, Kelly Stolz, Bismarck, ND; a son, Larry (Joye) Stolz, Sykeston, ND; a son-in-law, Merlyn Gottfried, Hutchinson, MN; four grandchildren, Desiree and Darin Gottfried, Michael and Jordan Stolz; a brother, Mineard (Nancy) Stolz, Milton-Freewater, OR; and a sister, MaryAnn Rhodes, Aurora, IL.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Otto and Olga; a brother, Gerald; a sister Lillian; and a daughter, Laurie Gottfried.
FUNERAL SERVICE: Evans Funeral Home, Carrington, ND
DATE AND TIME: Saturday, January 22, 2011 at 3:00 PM
INTERMENT: New Home Seventh-Day Adventist Cemetery, rural Sykeston, ND
