Lawrence H. Unkel

Funeral services for Lawrence H. Unkel, 91, of Battle Creek, will be 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 5, 2018, at St. John Lutheran Church in Battle Creek. Reverend B.J. Fouts will officiate. Burial will be in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Battle Creek. Visitation will be at St. John Lutheran Church from 4 to 7 p.m., Friday evening.  He passed away on Tuesday, May 1, 2018, at Community Pride Care Center. The Steffen Mortuary of Battle Creek is in charge of arrangements.

Lawrence was born on January 30, 1927, in Madison County, the son of Emil and Sophia (Hofmann) Unkel. He was raised on the family farm and graduated from high school in Battle Creek in 1945. Following his graduation, Lawrence began farming. He spent six years in the National Guard.

On August 31, 1952, Lawrence married Avalon “Avie” Rasmusson in Norfolk. They made their home on Lawrence’s family farm southwest of Battle Creek. He farmed into the early 2000’s when they moved into Battle Creek.

Lawrence was very active at St. John Lutheran Church.  He enjoyed all types of wood working and building cabinets. He had a passion for his gardening raising both food and flowers.

Lawrence is survived by his children: Laurie Mueller, of Omaha, Craig (Jean) Unkel, of Battle Creek, and Brian (Carol) Unkel, of Battle Creek; his five grandchildren and three great grandchildren; one brother-in-law, Richard Magwire.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, two brothers and one sister.

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