Thursday, February 13, 2025
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Larry Lee Vieregge

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Larry Lee Vieregge, born October 11, 1937, to Owen and Louise (Giraud) Vieregge, entered into the presence of his Savior and Lord on December 26, 2024, in Marshfield, Wisconsin at age 87.  

On June 6, 1958, Larry married the love of his life, Dorothy Arlene Saunders. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and service for 67 years. Larry is lovingly remembered by his children: Carol (Stephen) Mishler, Linda (John) Hodgell, and Mary Benz; and his cherished grandchildren: Rachael (Carey) Helwig, Judith (Justin) Turner, Cyndi (Spencer) Hamann, Emily (Chris) Chen, Michelle Benz, Elijah (Ashley) Hodgell, Josiah (Kyla) Mishler, and Elena Hodgell. His great-grandchildren include William, Hannah, Rebecca, Andrew, Roger, Elizabeth, Henry, and Isaac Helwig; and Jeremiah, Jonathan, Jameson, Jesse, Justice, Jeneva, and Josianna Turner. 

A devoted businessman with a heart for his community, Larry owned and operated LaDot Shoe Store for 42 years in Marshfield, Wisconsin. He took pride in serving others by providing quality footwear and exceptional service. Beyond his professional life, Larry's commitment to service was unwavering. His volunteer efforts extended into the community, contributing to organizations such as the Child Development Center, Jaycees, Opportunity Development Center, Kiwanis, Jr. Chamber of Commerce, and many others. He was an active member in numerous church and community organizations, dedicating his time and talents to causes close to his heart. His roles included serving on the board of Calvary Bible Church, as a trustee and elder, and as a junior high leader for Awana Clubs for over 34 years. Larry was recognized with the Christian Camping International Distinguished Volunteer Award in 1989 for his work at Crescent Lake Bible Camp. Larry also volunteered at New Tribes Mission Homes in Sanford, FL (now Ethnos 360), for over 25 years, assisting in building and renovating homes for retiring missionaries. He loved serving others that have served.

Larry will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who placed faith and family at the center of his heart. His generosity and compassion for others reflected his deep devotion to God’s teachings. Larry’s actions spoke volumes about his character—he lived with humility and grace, always seeking to uplift those around him. His memory inspires others to live with the same spirit of love and devotion that defined his remarkable life. However, he would not wish for anyone to think he was perfect, but rather to see him as a sinner saved by grace. At age 33, he came to understand that Jesus died in his place to take the punishment for his sins, and that he could simply put his faith in Jesus for forgiveness and salvation. Larry was born again, and his relationship with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ became the cornerstone of his life. His wish, in his own words, would be for all to know this, “The greatest choice you can make is to choose Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord. You’ll never be sorry for that choice.” 

A celebration of Larry's life will be held at 11:00 am on January 6, 2025, at Stratford Community Bible Church,118520 Fieldcrest Dr., Stratford, WI. Visitation will be from 9:00-11:00 am. Following services, Stratford VFW Post #6352 will be conducting military honors at the church. A luncheon will follow. Those wishing to express their sympathies are encouraged to direct their donation to the family for a gift to Ethnos 360, a ministry dear to Larry’s heart where he volunteered for over 25 years.