Obituary of Lawrence Joseph Vonderschmidt Jr.

Lawrence Joseph Vonderschmidt Jr.
July 17, 1940 –, August 17, 2024

Lawrence Joseph Vonderschmidt, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2024, in Collinsville, Oklahoma. Born on July 17, 1940, in Erlanger, Kentucky, A member of St. Henry Alumni. Lawrence was a cherished member of the Northern Kentucky community, known for his kindness, dedication, and enduring spirit.

Lawrence had a distinguished career in aviation, beginning with Lake Central Airlines, followed by Allegheny Airlines, and culminating with USAir. Throughout his career, he served with honor as a Captain and Check Airman. His dedication to aviation and his role in ensuring the safety and excellence of his colleagues and flights were a testament to his expertise and commitment. His contributions to the field were deeply respected by his peers and colleagues, and provide well for his family.

He is survived by his sons, Trey and Kevin, and his cherished grandchildren, Samantha, Macy, and AJ. Lawrence was also a proud great-grandfather to Stevie and Hayes. He is remembered fondly by his siblings, Vivian and David, and many other family members and friends.

Lawrence was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Louise Gabriel, and his sister, Marcia.

Outside of his professional life, Lawrence had a deep passion for recreational flying. He loved to spend his free time in the sky, enjoying the freedom and exhilaration that flying brought him. He also cherished getting together with old colleagues and participating in Quiet Birdman meetings. Whether reminiscing with friends or engaging in these special gatherings, he enjoyed sharing his passion for aviation and the camaraderie that came with it. His legacy is one of compassion, integrity, and joy.

A memorial service to honor Lawrence's life will be held at Blessed Sacrament Church in Fort Mitchell, KY, on (TBA) at 2409 Dixie Highway, Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017. This location holds special significance as it is where Lawrence and Barbara were married nearly 62 years ago. Friends and family are invited to join in celebrating his remarkable life and sharing their memories.

Lawrence Joseph Vonderschmidt will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his warmth, generosity, and the positive impact he had on everyone he met.

 

 

 

 

 

Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth

And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;

Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth

of sun-split clouds,—and done a hundred things

You have not dreamed of—wheeled and soared and swung

High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there,

I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung

My eager craft through footless halls of air ....

Up, up the long, delirious, burning blue

I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace

Where never lark nor ever eagle flew—

And, while with silent lifting mind I've trod

The high untrespassed sanctity of space,

Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.

FLY WEST MY FRIEND

 

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