Lawrence W. Auer

A Funeral Mass for Lawrence William Auer, 81, of Palatine since 1971, will be held, Friday, July 26, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 455 N. Benton St., Palatine, IL 60067. Interment will be private.

Lawrence was born February 8, 1943, in Chicago and passed away, surrounded by his family, on July 21, 2024, at the Lutheran Home in Arlington Heights.

Lawrence was the beloved husband of Karen Auer (Kozerski); loving father of Chris Auer and Gretchen (Scott) Elzer; loving grandfather of Tyler and Joey Elzer; loving brother of his twin sisters Betty (Bob) Roombos and Marilynn (late Sherwin) Stone; fond brother of the late Robert Auer; dear son of the late Otto and Leona (Noesen); loving uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Larry grew up on the West side of Chicago and attended Lovett Elementary School and Steinmetz High School. He met his wife Karen, of 57 years, on a blind date while studying at Northern Illinois University and finished his education at IIT.

Larry was proud of his 30+ year career as foreman for Mechanical Engineering and Development Company (MEDCO) in Des Plaines, producing prototype parts for NASA, Fermilab and specialized military projects for the government. He was an avid hobbyist (planes, trains and automobiles). Since high school, he flew model airplanes and was very involved with RC airplane clubs. Always willing to share his flying knowledge, Larry mentored many pilots over the decades. Family adventures around the U.S. were some of his favorite memories. Having time in retirement to spend with his grandsons made him so happy and proud. Countless hours entertaining family and friends in his basement full of “toys” gave everyone happy memories.

An additional Memorial Visitation and Celebration of Larry's life will be announced at a future date.