Lorenz Henry Wilking

SSG (Ret) Lorenz Henry “Larry” Wilking, son of the late Fred and Rosa (Berbrick) Wilking, was born December 13, 1921 in Courtland, Minnesota where he grew up and graduated from high school. In 1942, Larry was drafted into the United States Army and he served for 3 years and 7 months. During that time, he was stationed in Korea in 1945 and was in Okinawa when Japan surrendered at the end of World War II. He re-enlisted in the Army in 1951 and was stationed in Germany in 1955. At that time, he met the love of his life, Ingeborg Agnes Paul and they were united in marriage on December 22, 1956 in Assling, Germany. For his faithful service in the military, Larry earned several awards and commendations. He attained the rank of Staff Sergeant before his retirement and spent a total of 24 years. Larry and Inge came to Fort Leonard Wood in 1963 and Larry retired in 1966. After moving to the area, Larry and Inge were blessed with three children: Karl, James and Sandra. For a short time, Larry worked for Floyd Mooney cutting meat and then in 1968, Larry began working as a Civil Service employee. He worked in the message center and then became supervisor of the printing plant until his retirement at the age of 71. In his spare time, Larry enjoyed woodworking and working in his garden. Most importantly, he loved spending time with his family, especially the grandchildren. He was a faithful member of the St. Bellarmine Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 15026. Larry passed away at 5:53 p.m. Monday, July 9, 2012 in the Mercy Hospital of Springfield, Missouri having attained the age of 90 years, 6 months and 26 days. Larry leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Inge Wilking of the home; three children: Karl Wilking (Dawn) of Waynesville, James Wilking (Sara) of Waynesville, and Sandra Wilking Hendricks (Rob) of St. Peters, MO; six grandchildren: Allison, Nathan, Kimberlin, Kyle, Maggie and Charlie; other relatives and friends. He will be sadly missed by all those that knew and loved him. In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by an infant daughter: Margaret Ann Wilking; and three sisters: Rose, Fortuna and Esther. Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, July 13, 2012 in the St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church with Father John Groner officiating. Soloist Mike Beattie sang and was accompanied by Evelyn Horine. They also led the congregation in the responses. Serving as escorts were the United States Army and the Knights of Columbus served as honorary escorts. Burial with military honors followed in the Resurrection Cemetery of St. Robert. Military honors were provided by the United States Army of Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Services were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church Building Fund and may be left at the funeral home.

Lorenz Henry Wilking

December 13, 1921 - July 9, 2012