Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church, Lawrence Fenske passed away peacefully on June 15, 2026, at the age of 101. Lawrence was born in Pierce City, Missouri, to Joseph and Matilda (Gripka) Fenske. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Agnes (Kroutil) Fenske; his parents; and his siblings, Edward, Marie Heidlage, Louis, and Josephine Fenske.

Lawrence attended St. Mary’s School and grew up working on the family farm. Alongside his brothers, he spent countless hours playing baseball and was known as an outstanding pitcher. His love of fishing and sports remained a lifelong passion, whether cheering for his children and grandchildren or following the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs and all MIZZOU sports.

Lawrence married the love of his life, Agnes Kroutil, on May 17, 1952. Together they made their home in Springfield, Missouri, where he worked as a machine operator for Lily-Tulip Cup Corporation. Family was at the heart of Lawrence’s life. He is survived by his children, Anita Stansfield (Mike), Mary Jane Barnett (Larry), Dennis Fenske (Therese), and Rita Gibson (Kyle); grandchildren Lori Bannwarth, Amy Sanger, Lyndsy Wolfe, Sarah Richfield, Bridget McKiernan, Christopher Fenske, Stephen Stansfield, Melissa Molloy, Jacob Gibson, Matthew Gibson, and Molly Gibson; and 18 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, June 29, 2026, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 3555 S. Fremont Ave., Springfield, Missouri. Visitation begins at 10:00 a.m., followed by Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Masses are preferred.