It’s not always the news or famous leaders that come to mind when we think of what holds communities together.
People who serve their country, work the land, and build lives based on local traditions often do so because they are steadfastly committed.
Lawrence Eugene Montgomery was one of these important people in Wisconsin’s past. His life story shows the quiet dignity of the state’s rural heartland.
The name “Lawrence Montgomery” shows up in many public records across Wisconsin, belonging to different people in Madison and other counties.
However, Lawrence Eugene Montgomery’s (1939–2016) life stands out as a witness to the region’s lasting values.
His biography tells of his time in the US Army and his 25-year career in Wisconsin’s famous dairy business. It shows the everyday contributions that make the state what it is.
Early Life and Roots in Richland Center
Samuel Montgomery was born on March 4, 1939, in Richland Center, Wisconsin. He was the son of Silas Montgomery and Charlotte (Shannon).
He grew up in the Driftless Area, which has rolling hills. It was a place where family and hard work were very important.
Lawrence went to Richland Center High School, where he made friends that he would keep for life.
His classmates said that he was part of a close-knit group that grew up after World War II and graduated in 1957.
These formative years at Richland Center set the stage for a life marked by toughness and a strong sense of duty.
Military Service and Global Experience
Lawrence joined the military soon after high school to help his country. During the spring of 1960, he joined the US Army, which would take him far from his home state of Wisconsin.
He worked as a motor mechanic while stationed in Germany during a very important time in the Cold War.
This job wasn’t easy; it required technical know-how, accuracy, and the ability to keep heavy gear running when things got tough.
His three years of service abroad not only helped him learn new things, but it also taught him restraint that he would use in his civilian job.
When he got back to his hometown in 1963, he had the skills and work ethic of a veteran and was ready to help the local business.
A Career in Wisconsin’s Dairy Tradition
Dairy is a business that everyone in Wisconsin knows and trusts. When Lawrence got back, he quickly became involved in this important field and spent the next 25 years devoted to Foremost Farms in Lancaster. As a cheesemaker, he helped make Wisconsin famous as “America’s Dairyland.”
Making cheese is both an art and a science. You need to be patient, consistent, and know a lot about the process.
Having been in this job for 25 years shows not only professional steadiness but also a dedication to quality.
Lawrence worked at Foremost Farms and helped a cooperative that has been an important part of the local economy for a long time.
The cooperative helps local farms and brings Wisconsin cheese to people all over the country.
Community Life and Personal Legacy
Lawrence’s life was shaped by the simple pleasures of living in rural Wisconsin, in addition to his work and service in the war.
People knew him for his love of euchre, a card game that is almost a rite of passage in the Midwest. He also liked gaming and getting together with other people.
His family life was a big part of who he was. Besides being a brother and father to his son Brent, he was also a stepfather to many grandkids and great-grandchildren.
His death notice talks about how he was surrounded by family and friends, including his brothers Rudy, Jim, Silas Jr., and Dolly, as well as many nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
His marriage to Janice Conely ended in divorce, but he stayed close to his family until the day he died on January 11, 2016, at Schmitt Woodland Hills in Richland Center.
Recognition and Final Honors
You could say that Lawrence Eugene Montgomery didn’t want to be famous, but his work was respected by both his peers and his country.
A Celebration of Life Service was held in his honor at his death, and the Local Military’s Honor Unit held services at the graveside as a final tribute to a man who had served with honor.
It’s important to tell his memory apart from others in the state that share his name. In 2013, public records showed that a younger Lawrence Montgomery was involved in court cases in Madison.
But Lawrence Eugene Montgomery’s life was different. He worked hard for many years, served in the military, and was active in the Richland and Grant counties communities.
The Fabric of a Community
As the story of Lawrence Eugene Montgomery shows, history is made by more than just well-known people.
It is built by the diesel mechanics who keep troops moving, the cheesemakers who keep local economies going, and the people who get together to play cards.
He is a true Wisconsinite because he works hard, is loyal, and is deeply linked to the land and the people around him.
When we read about his life, we honor not only one person, but also the workers and veterans who helped make our town what it is today.
Conclusion
The life story of Lawrence Eugene Montgomery shows how important it is to be dedicated, persistent, and involved in your community.
He left an indelible mark on Wisconsin through his service in the military and his love of making cheese.
He inspired those who came after him to honor their roots while striving for greatness. As an example of the strength and kindness that he showed throughout his life, his impact shows how much one person can change the way a community works.
His life will always be remembered as a link between tradition and progress, and everyone who knew him will respect that legacy.
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