Lawrence Leroy ‘Muggs’ Brotzel

Our father proudly served in the Marines from October 1953, until April 1957. During his tour of duty as a reconnaissance specialist, he was honored with the National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. He was a tough Marine, but he lost his battle with cancer.

He was the foundation from which three families were built: the Kenneth (Mary Beth) Brotzel family, the McCallum/Turley (Margo and Mike) family, and the Kirkwood family (Keith and Janet).

Dad was a consummate gardener, and his most beautiful flower was Bette Rose, whom he nurtured and cherished for nearly 60 years, and who stayed by his hospital bedside through the long days and nights of his illness. Together, they raised three children, and welcomed their families and children into their heart and home.

Dad had a great generosity of spirit, and loved to entertain. He nourished our bodies and spirits at holiday gatherings and summer BBQs, and no one ever left hungry from his home. He never met a stranger, and loved to play cards, particularly Pinochle and Pitch, with special friends.

He celebrated new beginnings with each grandchild (Sarah, Rachel, Steven, Molly, Michael and Kelly), and patiently taught them how to fish. He took pride in their accomplishments and never wavered in his continuous support.

Preceding him in death was his father, John; his mother, Mary; sister, Mary Lou; and brother, Earl. He is survived by his brother, Bob; and sisters, Margie, Janice and Jean; as well as his wife and children.

Special thanks to the staff at St. Vincent's hospital for their compassionate care during his final stay. Memorials may be made to Frontier Cancer Research.

A vigil will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 29, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave. A Memorial Mass will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 30, at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 717 18th St. West. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery.

We miss you, Dad, and love you, but we are grateful that you passed through the pain and into God's grace and light.

Semper Fi!