Lawrence Paul Zech, age 93, passed away on Thursday, March 31, 2011 at Maplewood of Sauk Prairie. He was born at home near Denzer, WI on January 26, 1918 to Martin and Nina (Baumgartner) Zech. After completing eighth grade, he learned the farming trade by working for several farmers and later attended UW Farm & Industry Short Course. These experiences allowed him to start farming on his own near Sauk City. The farm later became Sunny Slopes Farm when his son-in-law, Bill Jaquish, became a partner. On May 20, 1942 he married Marie Sprecher. They were blessed with two children, LaNell and Terrill. Lawrence was a local pioneer of land conservation, including practices like strip cropping and flood control dams, earning him many awards. As an active member of the Bethlehem United Methodist Church, he served on many committees, as well as a teacher. He dearly loved the Lord and his church. He served as secretary of Sauk County Farm Bureau for many years. He held several stations in the Masonic Lodge and Order of Eastern Star and was a member of the Zor Shriners. All through his life, and especially after he retired, Lawrence enjoyed working with wood. He made over 40 cedar chests and countless clocks and other small items.



He is survived by his two children, Lanell Jaquish of Sauk City and Terrill (Gayla) Zech of Shoshone, ID; 13 grandchildren, NaTanya (Kurt) Olson, Jada (Jonathon) Hooks, Shalome (Brian) Ullmann, Rhett (Erin) Jaquish, Kassandra (Dan) Shigley, Katrina Zech, Ehron (Stephanie) Zech, Kamille Zech, Derrick (Jessica) Zech, Cody (Miriama) Rosen, Matthew (Tanya) Zech, Joshua Zech, Zachary Zech; 14 great-grandchildren; other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marie; son-in-law, William Jaquish; sister, Margaret Haugen; and brothers, Arnold, Herman and William Zech.




Funeral services will be held at BETHLEHEM UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, BLACK HAWK, at 11:00 am on Thursday, April 7, 2011 with Pastor Kendall Schlittler officiating. Burial will be in Black Hawk Cemetery. Friends may call at HOOVERSON FUNERAL HOME, SAUK CITY, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 6, 2011, where a Masonic Service will be held at 6:45 p.m.