Lawrence Andrew Gostowski – Benton, IL

Benton, IL — Lawrence Andrew Gostowski, age 90, of Benton, passed away at 9:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 19, 2016 at his home.

gostoskiGraveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, April 21, 2016 at the Masonic & Odd Fellows Cemetery of Benton with Rev. Kent Dunford officiating.  Military rites will be conducted by the Benton V.F.W. Post 2671, Benton American Legion Post 280, and the Army National Guard from Marion.  There will be no visitation, friends are asked to go directly to the cemetery.

Arrangements are through the Leffler Funeral Home of Benton.

Lawrence was born on February 9, 1926 in Franklin County, the son of Stephen Gostowski and Mary (Snow) Gostowski.  He married the former Virginia Merkel on July 29, 1950 and she survives.

Mr. Gostowski was a farmer.  But many will remember him from his employment with the Benton Kroger store.

Lawrence proudly served his country during World War II, having served in both the U.S. Army and the Army Air Corps, where he attained the rank of Sergeant. During his service he earned two Bronze Battle Stars from battles and campaigns fought in Luzon.

Lawrence was a member of the Benton V.F.W. Post 2671, where he was a past commander.  Until his health failed him, Lawrence was a fixture with the honor squad, honoring veterans at military rites, Memorial Day services, and Veteran’s Day events across the area.

His favorite pastime was fishing, no matter the temperature, he just loved to fish.  For many years he supplied the crappie fillets for his church’s annual fish fry and picnic.  He loved to garden, and enjoyed sharing the fruits and vegetables that he harvested.

Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family and attending his church.

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