Lawrence R. Savoie

After almost 92 years of doing his best to serve God and his family, Lawrence Rene Savoie died Tuesday May 18, 2021 at Unity Hospice in De Pere, Wisconsin.   He was born on May 26, 1929, and grew up on a farm in Dryburg Michigan, the seventh child of Emile and Cecelia (Boncher) Savoie. Lawrence graduated from Rudyard High in 1947, served in the 2nd Armored Division (Hell on Wheels), 1951-53.  On January 22, 1955, he married Audrey Smith at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.   He worked for the Soo Line Railroad in Rhinelander, Wisconsin for eight years, and then in Manistique, Michigan for 30 years as an agent. He was a life member of the Knights of Columbus, and VFW.  He called Bingo for the KC’s, VFW, and Manistique Senior Center. Lawrence served on the Manistique Area Schools’ Foundation and was treasurer for the St. Francis de Sales School, and KC’s. He enjoyed bowling, hunting and played in an 8-man bridge club for many years. He enjoyed helping his children on home projects and playing cards with friends and family. Lawrence had a quick wit and often used the phrase, “I’m not nosy, I just like to know.”  He was happiest swapping stories with friends and family.

He is survived by his wife Audrey of 66 years and his children Steve (Peg) De Pere, WI; Cindy (Marc) Seelye, Sobieski, WI; Jeff (Sally), Algoma, WI; Mark (Jess) Sault Ste Marie, MI; and Dan (Liz) Austin, TX.  Lawrence is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews as well as sisters-in-law, Char (John) Savoie, Olive (Bob) Lehtonen, and Marge (Jerry) Saterbak. 

Preceding him in death are his parents, his brothers Br. Albert SJ, Ray (Al), Gene (Margaret), John, and sisters, infant Agnes, Sr. Susie, Mildred and great-grandchild Deacon.

There will be a Memorial Mass celebrated at Noon on Saturday, June 5, 2021 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 330 Oak St., Manistique, MI, with Fr. Ben Paris officiating. A luncheon to follow.  His final burial will be in Sault Ste Marie, MI at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Lawrence’s name may be directed to St. Francis de Sales Church, Manistique Michigan, or the charity of your choice.