He was born Dec. 23, 1922, the son of the late Ernest and Louise (Treptow) Bittner. Lawrence graduated, in 1940, from Peshtigo High School, where he was valedictorian of his class. He later attended the University of Wisconsin at Madison. He then married the former Joyce Dahl on Sept. 22, 1945, in Marinette. Lawrence worked for Midwest Breeders as a district salesman. He was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, serving as past president and treasurer. He served as president of the Coleman School Board for a number of years and also served on various committees for the Town of Grover. He was a 4-H leader for many years and was actively involved with Marinette County Elderly Services.
Survivors include: his wife, Joyce; two sons, William (Diane) Bittner of Rockford, Ill., Larry (Mary) Bittner of Coleman; four daughters, Judy (Roger) Eisenmann of New Berlin, Barbara (Dale) Meyer of Clintonville, Debbie (Joe) Cherney of Coleman, Leanne (Francis) Fendrick of Marinette; 26 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, one grandson, Paul Meyer and one granddaughter, Tara Fendrick. Lawrence loved his family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.
Visitation will be today at St. John's Lutheran Church from 10 a.m., until the time of services at 2 p.m., with Pastor Charles Learman officiating. Burial will be at St. John's Cemetery. Berth and Rosenthal Funeral Home, 331 S. Ellis Avenue, Peshtigo, (715) 582-3834 is assisting the family.