Lawrence Krause Obituary

Lawrence Alfred Krause, 89, of Monticello, MN, passed away on July 30, 2025.

Born October 30, 1935, in Antigo, WI, Larry was fondly said by his mother to have been "hatched on a fencepost in the early morning sun." As a child, he survived polio and defied the odds by learning to walk again.

Growing up in Antigo with four brothers, one sister, and a large extended family, Larry worked a variety of odd jobs and developed a lifelong love of fishing. He earned a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Minnesota, where he also met Alice-the love of his life. They married on December 5, 1959, and eventually settled in Monticello in 1972 to raise their three children.

Larry spent 35 years as an engineer with Honeywell before embarking on a second career as a storyteller and flea market enthusiast-though his children insist he bought more than he sold. His red school bus and annual trips to multiple farm and car shows became part of his legend.

Faithfully involved in the Monticello community, Larry helped lead Boy Scout Troops 303 and 74 for decades, guiding his sons, grandsons, and many others to the rank of Eagle Scout. For 40 years, he worked the sidelines at Monticello football games as part of the chain gang. He was active in the PTA, Trinity Lutheran Church, and frequented his children's and grandchildren's school and sporting events.

Larry loved trout fishing trips to the North Shore and hunting in northern Minnesota. A passionate collector-especially of antique fishing tackle-he appreciated time spent outside and the memories made there.

Larry was preceded in death by his beloved wife Alice; parents Lawrence S. and Gladys Krause; and brothers Richard, Alvin and Jerry.

He is survived by his children John (Pat) Krause, Lawrence David (Lisa) Krause, and Catherine (Robert) Rhodes; grandchildren Ailia (Jeffery) Basterash, Lawrence W. Krause, Lauren Krause and Nelson (Ali) Krause; siblings Bernard (Sally) Krause and Delores Brownell; and many nieces and nephews.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the kind and compassionate staff at Willows Landing Senior Living for their dedicated care of Larry over the past two years.

A celebration of Larry's life is planned for October 4th from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Bertram Chain of Lakes Chalet.