Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Lawrence Agnew Obituary
SPRINGFIELD - Lawrence Ward Agnew Jr., age 70, of Springfield, passed away Sunday, March 16, 2008.
He was born May 5, 1937, in Alton, the son of the late Lawrence W. Agnew Sr. and Ada Lindsey Agnew. Mr. Agnew earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Illinois at Urbana, but also was self-educated in biology and began his working career as the first zoo director of the Henson Robinson Children's Zoo in 1970.
He was a lifetime member of the Abe Lincoln Gun Club and an avid fisherman who dearly loved nature and telling stories of outdoor adventure. As a voracious reader, he shared his interest in books by serving as a literacy volunteer. He was a devoted grandfather, enjoying countless days in the company of his favorite fishing buddy, Takil.
He is survived by two children, Meg and Jim; two grandchildren, Takil and Nana-Samantha; a sister, Mary Crute; niece Lindsey; nephews Michael and Brian; three great-nieces; three great-nephews; and many cousins.
A remembrance gathering is planned for May 17, 2008. Please call 671-3960 for details. The family suggests that donations be made in lieu of flowers to a memorial established in Lawrence Agnew's name with the Springfield Parks Foundation, 2500 S. 11th St., Springfield, IL 62703, 544-1751, to benefit the lagoon restoration in Washington Park.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Lawrence Agnew
Shona Alaria
July 26, 2018
I had lost track of Larry after the facility i worked at had closed dn in Springfield....Larry was a favorite friend and "boss" of mine when i had the pleasure of taking care of him during his stay at sangoman care center... .....Never will forget him...
Bill Hammel
April 29, 2008
Larry's friendship and expertise were of great importance when I came to Springfield to work at Lincoln Memorial Garden. His respect for all creatures great and small was an inspiring example. I expect he is now sharing stories with Izzak Walton and Steve Irwin.
Suzanne Hicks
April 22, 2008
My dear Jim and Meg: I was so sorry to learn of Larry's passing last month. I was always very fond of him and remember our many visits together, both in Virginia and in Springfield. I know that with all you've been through from losing Mary so suddenly, Larry's death is another challenge for you; it is always so difficult to lose the last parent.
I love you both very much.
Cousin Suzy
April 19, 2008
Jim and Meg,
Sorry to hear of your father's passing. I met Lawrence and Mary 26 years ago when you were kids and lived in the house on Columbia. Every time I saw him we would talk about our Scottish heritage. I used to see Lawrence at Jewel Osco in Fairhills Mall and he always had that jolly laugh and a story to tell that would make me laugh. I know he really enjoyed fishing and target practice at Abe Lincoln Gun Club. God bless! Shirley Eberhardt Mitts
Lynn Rhoades
April 2, 2008
Jim, I was so sorry to hear of your father's death. Although I am fortunate to still have both my parents, it must give one pause to think of who you are and where you have been when faced with such a defining moment in your life. I appreciate reading the entries of those who knew him well and that give me a glimpse into the life of your father.
Linda Wasem
April 2, 2008
Jim And Meg,
You have my sympathy at the loss of your father. It seems he was the bearer of a wealth of lore and stories.
mark o'brien
April 2, 2008
I was sorry to hear of Larry's passing. I worked for a brief time with Larry before there was a zoo. I can remember digging and lining the pond around the planned monkey island, with Larry and Henny Robinson and others. Larry was fun to work with and for. He will be missed.
Melinda Mast
April 1, 2008
Jim and Meg,
I am so sorry to learn this news about your dad. I still remember him holding that puppy. Please know that you are in my thoughts.
Don Baugher
March 31, 2008
As a former zoo employee, I received my portion of "Inemitable sagcity" from Lawrence Ward Agnew Jr. Both will be sorely missed.
Paul Dorkins
March 31, 2008
I had the privilege of meeting Lawrence almost 40 years ago. Although I was 14 years his junior he never treated me like the kid I was. He spent countless hours teaching me about firearms, fishing and the outdoors. These avocations sustain me today. I don’t know what my life would be like if I hadn’t known Larry. He was a fine and gentle soul.
Bob and Judy Culli
March 31, 2008
Dear Jim and Meg, We were so sorry to read of your Father's death. We keep you in our prayers. Jesus holds him in His arms as you keep his memories in your hearts. We remember the many trips he made to Our Savior's Lutheran School with animals in his pockets. What fun that was. God bless you! Love, Bob and Judy Culli
Erik Eberhardt
March 31, 2008
Lawrence was one of the kindest spirits I ever met. Of the three occasions I’ve fished in my life, my favorite trip was with Larry. It was a fantastic time I will never forget. Thank you Lawrence, you will be missed.
Robert Gonko
March 31, 2008
Meg and Jim, I am deeply sorry to hear of your father's death. I have fond memories of him from our years in grade school. God bless.
Don Eberhardt
March 31, 2008
I know that after dear Lawrence closed his eyes for the last time on this Earth, that they opened again, and as he looked about, he could see endless woodlands with abundant game, and a brook with fish jumping, and a small cabin for him with a warm fire. What a way to spend Eternity.
Ralph & Karen Barr
March 30, 2008
Meg & Jim, we are sorry to learn of the death of your father. Our thoughts & prayers are with you during this time of loss.
Jim Barnard
March 30, 2008
Lawrence was a good friend and will be missed. He had an amazing memory and I could always count on him for cost and retail of about any gun made.
Showing 1 - 16 of 16 results
Make a Donation
in Lawrence Agnew's name
Memorial Events
for Lawrence Agnew
How to support Lawrence's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Lawrence Agnew's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
