Wilbur John Lauer

Wilbur “Buddy” John Lauer, passed away Monday, February 19th, 2024

Buddy Lauer's journey began in Houston, Texas, where he was born on April 25, 1951, to Ronald Joseph Lauer and Rose Ann Slike Lauer. Growing up as the elder sibling in a family of four, he cultivated a deep love for his hometown of Houston. After earning his Bachelor of Arts degree from University of Saint Thomas, Buddy embarked on a career in the oil and gas industry, eventually becoming a valued procurement manager at KBR.

But beyond his professional achievements, Buddy's life was colored by his passions and personal connections. As a young man, he spent summers in the hills of eastern Pennsylvania working odd jobs around Lucinda, PA, immersing himself in the close-knit community of his parents' hometown. In Houston, his fascination with aviation took flight as he frequented local airports, forging friendships with pilots and marveling at the grandeur of airplanes.

It was in the bustling streets of Jakarta, Indonesia, that Buddy's life took a serendipitous turn. On a blind date, he met the love of his life, Thelma Romein, sparking a romance that would span continents and decades. Their whirlwind courtship culminated in a heartfelt proposal and a joyous wedding ceremony in Jakarta in December 1976. Together, they embarked on a new chapter, with Buddy bringing Thelma halfway across the globe to Houston, where they laid the foundation for their family's future.

The Lauers' household soon echoed with the laughter and love of their three children: Tiffany, Jonathan, and Shawn. Despite the demands of Buddy's career, which often led to relocations across the globe, he remained steadfast in his commitment to his family. Whether exploring the great outdoors, roaring down the highway on his beloved Harley, or sharing the magic of travel with his loved ones, Buddy infused every moment with warmth and affection.

Retirement brought new adventures for Buddy and Thelma, as they crisscrossed the country in their truck and trailer, savoring the freedom of the open road and the outdoors. Yet, amidst their travels, Buddy always made time for what mattered most: family. From the joy of welcoming grandchildren into the world to the simple pleasures of gathering around the dinner table, he treasured every moment spent with those he held dear.

As Buddy's journey on this earth has come to a close after a long battle with Parkinson’s, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion will continue to inspire generations to come, a testament to a life well-lived.

Buddy is survived by his devoted wife of 47 years, Thelma, his children Tiffany, Jonathan, and Shawn, daughter-in-laws Lauren and Christina, his grandchildren Liam, Eliana, and Elaina, his mother Rose Lauer, his sister Roney Reynosa, and his niece Rachel Creswell. His legacy of generosity, prioritizing family, and embracing life's adventures will be cherished by all who knew him.

His funeral service will be at Christ the King Catholic Church in Daphne, Friday, 1 March at 10:00 am with an interment at St Lawrence Catholic Church.

The family asks that any donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (https://www.michaeljfox.org).  

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