Larry W. Oetzel

Larry W. Oetzel, 74, passed away on October 7, 2024, in St. Germain, WI. Born on July 30, 1950, Larry was a cherished member of his community, a mentor, guiding star and inspiration to anyone that met him. His life was a testament to family, love, strength, and humility. He had a way of lighting up any room, and in return, his joy lit up our world. His kindness knew no bounds, his humility was ever present, and he was without a doubt, the most lovable man anyone was blessed to know. Larry taught us all that life is best lived with love and gratitude. The legacy he leaves is stitched into every smile and lesson he imparted on us.

Larry graduated from Cedarburg High School where he met his loving wife, Chris, of 48 years. He then went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He spent 31 years working for and retiring from LyondellBasell, previously known as Quantum and then later Equistar, where his work as a project manager was highly valued and respected.

An avid outdoorsman, Larry found peace and solace in nature. He was passionate about trapshooting, fishing, hunting, bowling, and golf. Some of his most memorable moments include catching a 44-inch musky on Big Lake in September 2010 and a 42-inch tiger musky on Little St. Germain Lake in July 1995. Larry also shared his love for sports and academics as a coach and tutor in trapshooting, soccer, math, and physics, profoundly impacting many lives.

Larry was a devout member of Hope Lutheran Church in Shorewood, IL. and St. John's Lutheran Church in West Bend, WI., where he was deeply involved in the community.

He leaves behind a loving family: his father, Leon Oetzel; sister, Deborah Oetzel; brother, Douglas Oetzel; daughter, Amy (Joseph) Lee; son, William (Christina) Oetzel; grandchildren, Thomas (Hadley Warycka) Lee, Katherine (Dane Wilson) Lee, David Lee, Addison Oetzel, and Delaney Oetzel; in-laws, Kathy (Jerry) Bongard. Larry was preceded in death by his mother, Carol (nee Rieck) Oetzel; his beloved wife, Christine (nee Johnson) Oetzel; and his in-laws, Marilyn (nee Brueckner) Johnson, Douglas Johnson, and Karen Johnson.

Visitation will be held at St. John's Lutheran Church, 809 S. 6th Ave, West Bend, WI. 53095, on Saturday October 26, 2024 from 10:00am to 11:15am, followed by the service at 11:30am.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Lupus Foundation of America, honoring Larry's compassionate spirit.