Lawrence Friedrich Spree of Allen, Texas, passed away on October 30, 2024, at the age of 74. He was born on March 20, 1950, in Victoria, Texas, to Edward Louis Spree and Agnes Marie (Heinze) Spree. Lawrence grew up in Edna, Texas where he developed a strong sense of community and a love for the outdoors, which would remain a significant part of his life.
After graduating from Industrial High School in 1968, Lawrence pursued higher education at Texas State Technical Institute in Waco, Texas, where he earned an associate degree in electrical engineering. His education laid the foundation for a successful career in engineering.
On May 17, 1975, Lawrence married the love of his life, Paula Kay Armstrong, in Dallas, Texas. Together, they built a warm and loving home filled with laughter and cherished memories. Lawrence dedicated over 40 years of his career to Texas Instruments and Raytheon, Inc., where he excelled as an electrical engineer, known for his expertise and commitment until his retirement in 2015.
Lawrence had a passion for the outdoors. He loved hunting and was also an avid softball player. Lawrence took great pride in meticulously caring for his lawn.
However, his greatest joy came from spending time with his family, whom he cherished deeply. He was a devoted husband, a caring father, and a proud grandfather. His faith played a vital role in his life as well, as he was a devoted member of Atonement Lutheran Church in Plano, Texas, where he found community and fellowship.
He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Paula of Allen, Texas; children, Edward Spree and wife, Christina Rimelspach of Aurora, Colorado and Candace Bell and husband, Samuel of Fairview, Texas; grandchildren, Allie Bell and Natalie Bell; sister, Viola “VV” Frey and husband, Gary of Memphis, Tennessee; several nieces and nephews; and a host of other loving family members and cherished friends.
Lawrence was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Mildred Cora Louise Baumler.
A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, November 7, 2024 at Atonement Lutheran Church, 4412 Legacy Drive, Plano, Texas 75024. Lawrence will be laid to rest at Ridgeview Memorial Park in Allen.
The family will receive friends during a visitation on Wednesday evening from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.