Dr. Lawrence William Kerkow

Dr. Lawrence W. (Larry) Kerkow was born to Robert and Alice Kerkow, St. Paul, Minnesota, December 3, 1926 and on January 13, 2014 finalized his mission on Earth. Preceding him on his journey were his parents; brothers, Robert and Raymond; sisters, Adeline and Mary. He enjoyed a lifetime of serving the public, his only regret at death was leaving a wonderful relationship with June, his spouse of 65 years. In 1943 WWII was at its peak and as a high schools senior, 17 years of age, Larry opted to do what other patriotic young men in his school were doing, Join the armed forces to win the war. Commissioned in the Army Marine Transport Service, Lieutenant Kerkow sailed the high seas for 18 months seeing combat in both oceans. When the war with Japan ended and his commissioned service was coming to a close he accepted a NCO Grade in the Army Air Corps Veterinary Service from which he retired as a United States Air Force Chief Master Sergeant. Mr. Kerkow was appointed to the position of City Clerk, Universal City, Texas and served in that office for 11 years. He was elected to the universal City Council and served in that office several times. He was subsequently elected Mayor of Universal City, Texas. While Mayor he legislated city business, and expanded both Police and fire departments to meet the rapidly expanding City’s needs. He initiated a Universal City Homeowners Tax Exemption of $5000.00. He was instrumental in expanding the number of City Parks. He had a penchant for helping people. As Mayor, the most troublesome task was magistrate juvenile violators. While serving the community he continued to function as President/Ceo of Larry Kerkow and Associates, a professional consulting firm. Mr. Kerkow also held the office of President of the Universal City Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). During his term of office the IDC purchased 274 Northlake Acres to make it available for low density businesses and protect the flying mission at Randolph AFB. The IDC promoted marketed and funded businesses to relocate into Universal City. Further, for his leadership, efforts and interest, Mr. Kerkow was known by some to be the father of Universal City’s Championship Olympia Hills Golf Course and Conference Center. Mr. Kerkow had many such accomplishments during his lifetime. He was a private pilot licensed to fly single engine aircraft. He held a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health, A Master of Arts Degree in Human Services (MAHS), and a Ph. D. in Business Administration. Larry was a lifetime member of the Air Force Sergeants Association Chapter 1075, American Legion Post # 667, Veterans of Foreign Wars # 4676, American Association of Retired Persons and Olympia Hills Golf Club. Mr. Kerkow had many friends preceed him and looks forward to renewed friendships. For those He’s leaving behind on the first tee box, he stands ready to welcome them when their time comes. Please contact Colonial Funeral Home at 210-658-7037 for service information. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to Mr. Kerkow’s favorite organization, Boysville, Converse, Texas.