Lavern H. “Bud” Erlitz, 88, died Friday, August 17, 2012 at St. Mary’s hospital surrounded by his loving family. Bud was born on March 7, 1924, in Rhinelander, to Herman and Charlotte (Korntved) Erlitz.

He graduated from Mountain High School. Bud worked various jobs before joining the U.S. Army in July 1945. He returned back to Rhinelander after his honorable discharge in June of 1947. Bud married Joan Wood on June 4, 1949, and they enjoyed 63 years of marriage. He worked at the Rhinelander Paper Company as a pipe fitter and then later worked at Triumph Twist Drill. Bud liked coaching boys little league and helping with Cub scouts. In his younger years he was a member of Bells of St. Mary’s. In his retirement he enjoyed golfing and working in his woodshop. Bud especially loved making toys for children. He’s greatest joy was spending time with family and friends.

Bud is survived by his wife, Joan, his children, Mary of Rhinelander, Laurie (John) Jorgenson of Shawano and Paul ( Karen) of Harshaw; his grandchildren, Jeffrey (Nina) Jolin, Amber (Sam) Nettrour and Abby (Robert) Dalka; and great grandchildren, Alina, Madeline, Isiah, Noah, Kiara and William; siblings, Duane (Pat) of Sun City, Ariz., Eugene of Colgate, Dolores Langford of Independence, Mo., Arlene of Clearwater Lake, Beverly O’Donnel of San Diego, Calif., Joan Clayton of Las Vegas, Nev., Cheryl Galston of Three Lakes and Lynda Bolte of Eagle River. He was preceded by his parents, an infant brother and a sister, Joyce Maney.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Aug. 22, at 2 p.m., at Hildebrand-Russ Funeral Home with Chaplain John Uhlarik officiating. Visitation will be from noon until the time of service at the funeral home.

(Hildebrand-Russ Funeral Home)