Obituary: Alex "Hansy" Lau

Alex "Hansy" Lau, died on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at his home in Brillion. 

Alex passed away peacefully at his home in Brillion on Tuesday May 13, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. He was 88 years old. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, hard work, and a devotion to family and community

Born on October 12, 1936, to Gerhard Sr. and Rachel (Wenzel) Lau, Alex grew up with strong values and a spirit of service that would shape the rest of his life. From 1956 to 1958, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, stationed in Texas for the first 12 months before serving overseas in Germany, where he carried out his duty with integrity.

On August 10th, 1963, he married the love of his life, Elaine Zutz. Together, they built a family grounded in faith and deep-rooted joy. They shared 61 years of marriage.

Alex began working alongside his father at Long Lake Cheese Factory, later took on driving for Rent-a-Truck, sold cars for Mobile Equipment Sales and Jentink’s, and concluded his career at Lunda Construction.

He was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Rantoul, the Potter Fire Department, the Community Association, and the Potter Athletic Association. He also served as an assistant coach for Gruett’s softball team in the early years and later coached his own children at Potter Firemen’s Park.

In the early years, Alex and Elaine enjoyed many camping trips before settling with a cottage on Long Lake. They later spent winters in the South, creating warm memories together. Both Alex and Elaine enjoyed playing cards and were active members of several card clubs. Alex also enjoyed attending sporting events, especially those involving his children, grandchildren and now great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine, their children: Sheri (Gregg) Eickert, Brillion, Doug (Chris) Lau, Potter, Tim (Stacy) Lau, Chilton, Gary (Kristi) Lau, Hilbert and Bill (Keri) Lau, Potter.

16 grandchildren: Sara (Greg) Van Lanen, Kelly (Chris) Manzeck, Brittany (Max) Hanson, Jennifer (Ryan) Geiger, Jacob (Nicole) Lau, Zach (Kayla) Lau, Megan Lau, Rachel (Lia) Lau, McKenzie (Mike) Pasineau, Stephanie Lau (special friend Alex), Bennett Lau (fiancée Hailey), Evan Lau (special friend Laney) Logan Lau (special friend Karley), Kelsey (Derek) Jacobs, Carlie (Brian) Shimon and Kalyn (Dylan) Jaenke.

17 great grandchildren, Aliya, Wyatt, Nolan, Grayson, Bryce, Clay, Sophie, Brody, Jade, Ederek, Ellien, Levi, AJ, Willie, Colt, Elliot and Madelyn, with one coming in July.

His sister, Erdine Schultz, Sister-in-Law, Carolyne Lau and Brother-in-Law, Wayne Koffarnus. Elaine’s family, Ronald (Carol) Zutz, Roger (Kathy) Zutz, Carol Dvorak, Mary Jane Zutz and Vernetta Zutz, numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, mother-in-law and father-in-law, sister’s Emogene, Dorothy, Phyllis, brother Gerhard Jr, brother-in-law Ralph Koffarnus and Roger Schultz, Elaine’s family, brother-in-laws Gerald Zutz, Hilary Zutz, Charles Nass, Bob Dvorak, sister-in-law Joan Nass, and a great grandson Brooks Manzeck, baby Belle Shimon and baby Eli Shimon.

Funeral service will be at 3:00 pm on Monday, May 19, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Rantoul (N6080 W. River Road Hilbert, Wisconsin 54129) with Rev. Mark Krueger officiating.  Burial will follow in the Parish Cemetery.  A time of visitation will be held at the church from 12:00 Noon until 2:45 pm on Monday, May 19, 2025.  At the time of the service and following, there will be a link available at wietingfuneralhome.com for those wishing to watch a live stream or archived recording of the service, view a memorial video, or see pictures of the flowers and gifts given to the family.