Lawerence "Larry" L. Lenz Obituary (1934

Yakima, Washington - Lawrence "Larry" L. Lenz, a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather passed away peacefully on January 3, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona, at the age of 90. Born on December 6, 1934, in Yakima, Washington, Larry was the son of AJ (Tony) and Marie Lenz. He graduated from Marquette High School in 1953, and went on to earn a degree in Forestry, from Washington State University in 1957. While at WSU, he was a proud member of the Phi Kappa Theta Fraternity and began forging a life rooted in service, education, and nature. In 1958, Larry married Karen Hartzell. Together, they shared 67 wonderful years of marriage. They raised three sons, Brian (Tammie), Bradley (Kristie), and Larry Jay, and built a family that would grow to include grandchildren, Olivia, Elizabeth (Garret Harris), Madeleine, Avary, Davis, Anthony, and Gianna, as well as great-grandchildren, Elijah, Henry, and Levi. Larry's professional career spanned several esteemed organizations, including the U.S. Forest Service, Boeing Company, the City of Yakima, and the U.S. Soil Conservation Service, where he concluded his career. He was a longtime member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Yakima, and an active participant in numerous civic and professional groups, including the Society of American Foresters, the Yakima Elks, Yakima Gyro, and the Yakima Area Arboretum. He was also part of a coffee group for more than 60 years. His love and talent for telling a joke made it possible to leave anyone with a laugh. Larry had a passion for travel and, alongside Karen, explored much of the United States, as well as destinations abroad including Europe, Japan, China, Mexico, and Canada. In retirement, they spent winters in Mesa, Arizona, where Larry enjoyed golf and the companionship of friends in the sunshine. Larry is survived by his wife, Karen, his sons, his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, nephew, Chad Lenz, many other nephews, nieces, and many dear friends and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Vernon Lenz. A Celebration of Larry's Life will be held on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 2:00pm, at Summitview Country Clubhouse (101 N 48th Ave., Yakima, WA 98908). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Yakima Area Arboretum, or a charity of your choice in Larry's memory. His warmth, wisdom, and kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Brookside Funeral Home. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com