Lawrence James Wrobel

Age 76, of Northeast Minneapolis, passed away peacefully at home on September 12, 2025, after a courageous year-long battle with aggressive prostate cancer.

Larry was born to James “Kuba” and Celia “Curly” Wrobel and grew up in Northeast Minneapolis, where he remained rooted throughout his life. He graduated from DeLaSalle High School in 1967 and soon after enlisted in the United States Air Force. Larry served with pride, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant before his honorable discharge in 1971. That same year, on March 23, he married the love of his life, Kathy, and together they began a journey of more than five decades of love and partnership.

Larry and Kathy raised their family in Columbia Heights, where he built a warm and welcoming home, while always maintaining close ties to his beloved Northeast Minneapolis community. In retirement, he was happy to return to Northeast once again.

He worked for many years as a mechanic for the U.S. Postal Service, specializing in HVAC systems, though he was known for being able to fix just about anything. His skills, steady work ethic, and willingness to lend a hand were admired by all who knew him.

Outside of work, Larry loved fishing and the outdoors. He especially cherished time at his cabin on the Mississippi River near Jacobson, MN, where he found peace and tranquility in the solitude of nature. He also enjoyed time with friends at Jimmy’s Bar in Northeast Minneapolis, where he shared many laughs and stories over the years.

A lifelong sports fan, Larry closely followed Minnesota teams—though he often joked there were many times he wished he didn’t. Later in life, he also became an enthusiastic supporter of the UMD Bulldogs hockey team, catching their games on local TV while spending time at the cabin.

Larry’s family was his true pride and joy, especially his grandchildren, who brought him endless happiness and laughter. He will be remembered not only as a devoted husband, proud father, and doting grandfather, but also as a son-in-law, brother-in-law, father-in-law, friend, cousin, and uncle. He was the person everyone knew they could count on whenever help was needed. His warmth, humor, and generosity touched the lives of many.

He is survived by his loving wife Kathy; sons, Jacob (Susan) and John (Sarah); and his cherished grandchildren, Keira, Benjamin, William, and Henry.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James “Kuba” and Celia “Curly” Wrobel.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, September 24, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Minneapolis, with visitation beginning one hour prior. Burial will take place at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery in Minneapolis.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Minnesota Prostate Cancer Coalition or to the donor’s choice of charity.

Larry’s life was a gift to all who knew him, and his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.