Alvin Lorenz

Alvin Bennie Lorenz was born May 15, 1918 on a farm north of Butterfield, MN to Charlie and Mary (Knoll) Lorenz. He was baptized and confirmed in the German Lutheran faith and continued that faith until his death. He received his education in St. James parochial school and a country school near Butterfield. He lived with his parents south of St. James until December 9, 1936 when he married Laura Watkins. They continued to live and farm the land with his father until his father retired, then Alvin and Laura purchased a farm south of Butterfield where he remained until the Lord took him home. Alvin worked many jobs. He was a carpenter, the manager of a corn sheller, drove an 18 wheeler and did custom baling. He was also a very good gardener and a fix it man. In 1971 he and his wife opened an antique business on their farm named Rainbow Antiques. They continued that business for 30 years when with failing health they decided to close it. Alvin was an active member of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church of Butterfield, serving on the council for 17 years. Almost every sunday you could see him sitting on the right side of the church, 2nd pew from the front. Alvin is survived by his wife Laura; one son, Jerry (Bonnie) Lorenz of Strongsville, OH; four grandchildren, Cory (Kelly) Lorenz, Amber (Butch) Rydeen, Elliott Lorenz, and Taylor Lorenz; four great-grandchildren, Macy and Caleb Lorenz and Cole and Callie Jackson. He is also survived by two brothers, Carl (Jennie) Lorenz and Lester (Zeli) Lorenz; one sister, Myrtle (Lyle) Stolze. He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Bobby; two sisters, Lorena and Laura; one brother, Ervin; and onegranddaughter, Allisha. He will be missed by many nieces, nephews and many, many friends.