(From Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home)Lawrence Louis Katzfey, Sr., a steadfast pillar of his community and beloved family man, passed away peacefully of natural causes on February 7, 2025, in Joplin, MO.
Born on January 11, 1932, in rural Pierce City, MO, Lawrence, known affectionately as "Lawrence" to his friends and family, lived a life marked by dedication, service, and warmth.
Lawrence's journey began in the heart of Missouri, where he grew up surrounded by the love of his family and the tight-knit community of Pierce City. He attended Sarcoxie High School, where he forged the strong values and work ethic that would define his life.
After graduation, he honorably served his country in the United States Army, during the Korean War, a period of his life he recalled with pride and a sense of duty. His post-military career saw him employed at Justin Boot and later retired from Atlas Powder (ICI) after many years of dedicated service. In his retirement, Lawrence continued to serve his community by working part-time for Housh Funeral Home in Sarcoxie.
On June 4, 1955, Lawrence married the love of his life, Doris (Tinkle) Katzfey, at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Sarcoxie, MO. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership, a bond that was only strengthened by the family they built together. Lawrence was a devoted father to his children, Theresa Sooter (Dennis), Susan Conley (Jim), and Sylvia Evans (Randy), and a loving father-in-law to Dewenda Katzfey. His legacy further flourished through his seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.
Lawrence's life was not without its sorrows. He was preceded in death by his son, Lawrence Louis Katzfey, Jr., his parents, and his siblings, Leo, Clarence, Joseph, Francis, Richard Katzfey, Edmund Katzfey, Emma Palmer, Marie Wormington, Louise Eck, and Anna Mae Gruber. Despite these losses, his faith remained unshakable. He found comfort and strength in his membership at St. Agnes Catholic Church, where he was a beacon of faith-filled devotion.
Those who knew Lawrence were touched by his friendly nature and his willingness to lend a hand or a listening ear. He served his community as a Boy Scout leader for five years, shaping the lives of young men with his wisdom and kindness. His interests were simple yet profound: he found solace in gardening, the companionship of his dogs, and the beauty of purple martins. Above all, Lawrence cherished the time spent with his family and friends, understanding that these moments were the true fabric of a well-lived life.
Lawrence's siblings, Bernard Katzfey and Bernadine Adamson, along with several nieces and nephews, will remember him as a beloved brother and uncle. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Yet, they take comfort in the knowledge that his life was a testament to the virtues of kindness, community service, and unwavering faith.
On June 4, 1955, Lawrence married the love of his life, Doris (Tinkle) Katzfey, at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Sarcoxie, MO. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership, a bond that was only strengthened by the family they built together. Lawrence was a devoted father to his children, Theresa Sooter (Dennis), Susan Conley (Jim), and Sylvia Evans (Randy), and a loving father-in-law to Dewenda Katzfey. His legacy further flourished through his seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.
Lawrence's life was not without its sorrows. He was preceded in death by his son, Lawrence Louis Katzfey, Jr., his parents, and his siblings, Leo, Clarence, Joseph, Francis, Richard Katzfey, Edmund Katzfey, Emma Palmer, Marie Wormington, Louise Eck, and Anna Mae Gruber. Despite these losses, his faith remained unshakable. He found comfort and strength in his membership at St. Agnes Catholic Church, where he was a beacon of faith-filled devotion.
Those who knew Lawrence were touched by his friendly nature and his willingness to lend a hand or a listening ear. He served his community as a Boy Scout leader for five years, shaping the lives of young men with his wisdom and kindness. His interests were simple yet profound: he found solace in gardening, the companionship of his dogs, and the beauty of purple martins. Above all, Lawrence cherished the time spent with his family and friends, understanding that these moments were the true fabric of a well-lived life.
Lawrence's siblings, Bernard Katzfey and Bernadine Adamson, along with several nieces and nephews, will remember him as a beloved brother and uncle. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Yet, they take comfort in the knowledge that his life was a testament to the virtues of kindness, community service, and unwavering faith.
Funeral Mass for Mr. Katzfey will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, February 14, 2025 at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Sarcoxie, with Father Matthew Rehrauer officiating. Inurnment with full military honors will follow in St. Agnes Cemetery. Rosary will be 5:30 p.m. Thursday evening with visitation to follow until 7:00 p.m. In-lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Ronald McDonald House or Children's Miracle Network in care of the funeral home. On-line condolences may be sent to the family through our website www.housh-goodwinfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home in Sarcoxie, Missouri.

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