Obituary of Lawrence G. Wilke

NORTH RIVER: Lawrence “Larry” Wilke, 92 years old of North River, NY, passed away surrounded by his beloved wife and family on August 31, 2024.

Larry was born on February 6, 1932, to the late Richard and Julia (Rheinhart) Wilke in Schenectady, NY. He grew up in Schenectady and attended Mount Pleasant Central School, where he was an active member of the high school ski racing team. During his senior year, Larry studied ski instruction with the Schenectady Wintersports Club and earned his first teaching certification.

Larry attended SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, where he continued to teach skiing through the Syracuse University ski program. He graduated with a degree in Wood Products Engineering. During his college years, Larry fell in love with Sally Keller, who would become the love of his life. This year, Larry and Sally celebrated 71 years of marriage.

Larry’s working career started with Standard Furniture in Herkimer, followed by GE, and then 19 years at Remington Arms, where he was a Senior Process Engineer.  His specialty was gunstocks made of walnut.  Larry also continued teaching skiing after joining Professional Ski Instructors of America, where he was on the educational staff for 35 years.

Larry's love of woodworking was evident in the home he and Sally built together. Boats were also a significant part of Larry's life. In 1959, he made his first trip down the Hudson River Gorge in a wood-and-canvas canoe, and this tradition continued for decades with Sally, their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren as they participated in the Hudson River White Water Derby. Larry's passion extended to sailing as well. He was also an avid deer hunter, often hiking across his steep property, and every year, he tapped over 90 trees to make maple syrup.

In addition to his parents, Larry was predeceased by his brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Joan Wilke, and granddaughter, Amanda Foster.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Sally Wilke; his sons, Mike (Trisha) Wilke and Richard (Debbie) Wilke; his daughters, Barbara (Steve) Noyes and Patricia Foster; 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Memorial donations may be made to: North Country Ministry, 3933 Main Street, Warrensburg, NY 12885 or www.northcountryministry.org.

A memorial service will be held at noon on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at St. James Church in North Creek, NY. Following the service, a celebration of life will take place at the Tannery Pond Community Center, 228 Main Street, North Creek, NY.

Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online condolences and guest book.