HIGHMORE, SD – Lawrence Lynch, 88, of Highmore, passed away Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at the Highmore Health.

Funeral Mass will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 8, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Highmore, with Monsignor Charles Mangan, celebrant. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Highmore. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the funeral Mass.

Lawrence H. Lynch was born on March 14, 1936, to Leo L. and Florence (Kelley) Lynch in Highmore, South Dakota.

On February 9, 1959, Lawrence married Shirley Parker, and together they shared many happy years riding his motorcycle and celebrating family gatherings. Their greatest joy came on December 29, 1976, with the birth of their daughter, Laurie Ann. As she grew, Lawrence delighted in attending her music performances, camps, concerts, and school programs. He was a proud father when she married Barry Hayes on June 14, 2003. Lawrence and Shirley recently celebrated 65 years of marriage on February 9, 2024.

Lawrence was a dedicated and valued worker throughout his life. His career included roles with Tompkins OK Service, Kiel Implement, and Leonard Iron Works, before joining Pioneer Garage in 1964, where Clarence Busse hired him to set up farm machinery. After 38 years of service, he was honored by Jan Busse with a Ford Taurus as a tribute to his commitment to the company.

Lawrence had a deep love for the land and nature. From a young age, he worked alongside his father doing custom baling with a team of horses, eventually developing extensive expertise in baler operations. Known for his helpful spirit, Lawrence especially enjoyed supporting truckers by efficiently loading and unloading with his forklift, always ensuring they were quickly back on the road.

Lawrence will be remembered for his kind heart, his dedication to his work, and his love for family and nature. His memory will be cherished by those who knew him.
Those grateful to have shared in Lawrence’s life is his wife of 65 years, Shirley of Highmore; daughter, Laurie (Barry) Hayes of Rapid City; sister, Patricia Calvetti of Rapid City; nieces, nephews, and other family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, Gordon and Olive Parker; and siblings: Charlotte Roalstad, Katherine Ortmeier, Marllys Cermak, Guen Etta Axtmann, John Abernathy, Kenneth Abernathy, George Abernathy, Joseph Abernathy, Raphael (Bud) Lynch, and Leo E. (Bunk) Lynch.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice.

Luze Funeral Home of Highmore has been entrusted with Lawrence’s arrangements.

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