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William Church Obituary
June 20, 1938 - November 24, 2024
William Lawrence Church (Larry), an adventurous companion and kind friend to many, died peacefully on November 24, 2024. He was born 6/20/1938 in Milwaukee, Wis. to William Bull Church and Elizabeth Delano Fort Church.
He retired as Volkman-Bascom Distinguished Teaching Professor of Law after teaching for 50 years at the University of Wisconsin Law School. He received numerous awards for excellence in teaching. He lectured as a visiting professor in law schools in more than 14 countries, including longer stints in Ethiopia and Zambia. He served as an advisor to the Supreme Court of Afghanistan in 1971-72. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin Law School in 1963, from Amherst College in 1960, where he played hockey, and the Milwaukee Country Day School in 1956, where he lettered in many sports.
Larry is predeceased by his wife, Fredericka Paff and his first wife, Mary Mitchell Church. He is survived by his daughters, Laurel M. Walker, Emily R. Church and Gwynne D. Church.
Memories and Condolences
for William Church
Sponsored by Edward F. Carter.
4 Entries
Bill Fahey
August 25, 2025
Larry was not only my best professor ever, but was the smartest person and one of the kindest people I have ever known. He taught me to understand law in the context of public policy, which continues to inform my judgment about what law should be, regardless of what law may be written. I was blessed to work for Larry as his research assistant for two years while in law school, which financed my legal education and gave me practical experience with municipal law, which would become the centerpiece of my 5-decade legal career.
Even in my retirement, I think about Larry often. Imagine my delight when, on a vacation to Maine last June, I happened to be seated at dinner at a table next to Larry´s nephew! It was so sad to hear that Larry was not well, but so affirming to share memories of Larry. I will always miss Larry and continue to think of him. He had a profound influence on my life.
Richard Weisfelder
April 30, 2025
I am trying to get information for a remembrance in Amherst magazine for Larry. All I have is his obituary, so I hope that his daughters might respond with some ideas. His classmates and I are saddened by your loss.
John Edmondson
January 30, 2025
I agree 100% with Tom Wiensch's sentiments. Larry Church was the best of the best. It was a privilege and honor to have been one of his students. Sincere condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.
Tom Wiensch
December 23, 2024
Professor Church was the best professor I ever had. He was brilliant, unassuming, and kind. My condolences to his family.
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