Elmer Lorenz

Elmer Aloysius Lorenz, a resident of Pilot Grove, MO, passed away peacefully, Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at Katy Manor.

He was born May 29, 1939, to Alexander and Marie (Pabst) Lorenz in Pleasant Green, MO. He was an active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church as well as a 52-year member of the Clear Creek Knights of Columbus.

Elmer was united in marriage with Patricia Ann Stevens on November 28, 1959, by Father S.J. Hoppe in Tarkio, MO

Elmer enlisted in the U.S. Army and completed bootcamp in Fort Leonard Wood as a combat engineer on March 29, 1957, at the age of 18. Upon completion of bootcamp between the Korean and Vietnam Wars, he was active in the U.S. Army Reserve until October 31, 1964, shortly after his third son arrived. Upon completion of his service, he immediately started working for Howard Construction, where he built bridges across the state of Missouri and into surrounding states. He spent 43 years, 3 months, and 3 days working with Howard Bridge Construction Company in Sedalia. After his long construction career, he spent the next 20 years working for Ritchie Brothers Auction Service, helping to sell the heavy equipment that he utilized throughout his career.

Elmer is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Patricia Ann Lorenz; sons, Anthony “Tony” Lorenz and wife Joyce of Pilot Grove, Terrance “Terry” Lorenz and wife Chrysa of Pilot Grove, Todd Lorenz of Pilot Grove, Tracy Lorenz and wife Kristee of Sedalia, Travis Lorenz and wife Jane of Boonville; 14 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; siblings, Earlene Twenter of Sedalia, Leroy Lorenz of Independence, and Doris Kempf of Boonville.

He was preceded in death by both of his parents and his brothers John A. Lorenz, Raymond Lorenz, Robert “Bobby” Lorenz, William “Billy” Lorenz, and Norbert “Pete” Lorenz.

Elmer leaves behind a culture and legacy of hard work, compassion, humor “orneriness”, and a positive influence on the lives of those around him.

All services for Elmer Lorenz will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 407 Harris St. Pilot Grove, MO on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. Prayers of the Holy Rosary will begin at 9:00 a.m. with visitation immediately following until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be held at a later date at the St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Clifton City. Memorial contributions are suggested to the St. Joseph Catholic School Foundation.