Lawrence J. Carter

Lawrence “Larry” Carter, age 87, of De Pere, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2025. Born on April 14, 1938 in Glenmore, Wisconsin, to Lester and Stella Carter, Larry lived a full and devoted life rooted in family, hard work, and community.

As a child, Larry formed many fond memories playing baseball in De Pere. After graduating high school in 1956, he served proudly as Sergeant Carter in the U.S. Army at Fort Smith, Arkansas. In 1959, he married the love of his life, Edna (Hockers), with whom he recently celebrated 66 years of marriage. Together, they raised six children and built a legacy grounded in love, faith, and dedication.

Larry was a man of many talents and tireless energy. He farmed, worked as a mechanic at Cliff Wall Oldsmobile, and drove truck for Brillion Iron Works before founding Carter Trucking & Excavating in 1968. Later, he and Edna also operated Blue Sky Self Storage. A committed entrepreneur and skilled tradesman, Larry believed deeply in the values of hard work, perseverance, and innovation. Hard work ethic was very important to Larry, he always said, “if you’re going to be a bum, be the best bum that you can be.”

He gave back generously to his community, serving on the board of the Town of De Pere and as a respected leader in the Brown County Home Builders Association, where he was honored as Associate of the Year.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife Edna; their six children: Diane, Wayne (Katie), Curt, Doug (Julie), Todd (Jeannie), and Dean (Jenny); 20 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the community he helped shape.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Stella Carter, and siblings Robert, Russell, Merle, Elaine, Doris, Harold, and JoAnn.

Family and friends may visit on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at St. Mary Catholic Church, 4805 Sportsman Drive, De Pere (Ledgeview) from 9:00am until 10:45am with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 11:00am with Rev. Mike Ingold officiating. Cotter Funeral and Cremation Care is assisting the family with arrangements.

Larry will be remembered for his unshakable work ethic, generous spirit, and the love of a good party. He leaves behind a rich legacy.