Lawrence H. Gatzke, age 79, of Mehoopany, PA passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 19, 2023 surrounded by his family.

Born in Orange, NJ on September 16, 1944, he was the son of the late William and Rose Santoz Gatzke.  A few years after graduating from Mendham High School, Lawrence joined the Army National Guard out of Morristown, NJ and would serve his country in that capacity for the next five years.  On May 28, 1966, shortly after enlisting, he had the good fortune of marrying the love of his life, Edna Charlotte Sleeth (d. May 31,2023) and enjoying the next 57 years with her.  They cherished the simple country life they shared together in Wyoming County.

Lawrence was known as a genuine "motor head".  He loved everything about cars, whether it be racing them or working on their engines.  He was extremely handy and could build or fix just about everything.  Lawrence also took great pride in sharing his passion and knowledge with his kids and grandchildren.  He loved teaching them how to use his tools to work on engines and other machines that needed repairs.

Surviving Lawrence are his children, Matthew Gatzke (Meredith) of New Jersey, and Kelly Bajek (Matthew) of New Jersey; his grandchildren, Matthew, Jack, Emily, and Clare; his siblings, Ronald, Russell, and Paul; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Lawrence's Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at the Lovelton Bible Church, 1050 PA-87, Mehoopany, PA 18629, with Reverend Doug Mills officiating.

Arrangements were entrusted with the Sheldon Funeral Home, 459 Main St., Laceyville, PA 18623.

Online condolences may be made at www.SheldonFuneralHomes.com.