A Respected and Dedicated Community Leader
Lawrence Sorensen, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2023, at the age of 85. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Lawrence was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, on July 10, 1937, to Harold and Evelyn Sorensen. He grew up in a loving home with his siblings, Harold Jr. and Marilyn. Lawrence attended St. Paul Central High School, where he excelled in his studies and athletics. He was a gifted basketball player and earned a scholarship to the University of Minnesota.
After graduating from college with a degree in business administration, Lawrence embarked on a successful career in the insurance industry. He joined State Farm Insurance in 1960 and quickly rose through the ranks. In 1972, he opened his own agency in Rochester, Minnesota, where he served countless clients for over 40 years.
Throughout his career, Lawrence was known for his integrity, professionalism, and dedication to his customers. He always went above and beyond to ensure that his clients were well-protected and satisfied. His agency consistently received top awards for its performance and customer service.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Lawrence was deeply involved in his community. He served on the Rochester City Council for 20 years, including two terms as mayor. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in many important initiatives, including the development of the Mayo Civic Center, the construction of the Rochester International Airport, and the establishment of the Rochester Public Library.
Lawrence was also a dedicated member of the Rochester Rotary Club. He served as president of the club twice and received the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Award for his exceptional service. He was also actively involved in the Boy Scouts of America and the United Way.
Lawrence’s greatest joy in life was his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Mary Ann, in 1960. Together, they raised three children: Lori, Scott, and Anne. Lawrence was a loving and supportive husband and father. He always put his family first and was always there for them, through thick and thin.
Lawrence cherished his friendships. He had a wonderful sense of humor and loved spending time with his friends. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, and traveling. He also had a passion for music and was an accomplished pianist.
Lawrence Sorensen was a remarkable man who made a significant impact on his community. He was a successful businessman, a dedicated civic leader, and a loving family man. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched throughout his extraordinary life.
Memorial Service and Internment
A memorial service for Lawrence Sorensen will be held at Rochester Methodist Hospital’s Assisi Heights Chapel on January 25, 2023, at 11:00 AM. Internment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rochester Rotary Club or the United Way of Olmsted County.
Lawrence Sorensen’s Impact on Rochester
Lawrence Sorensen made an immeasurable contribution to the city of Rochester. His leadership and dedication left a lasting legacy that continues to benefit the community to this day.
Economic Development:
- Played a key role in developing the Mayo Civic Center, which has attracted millions of visitors and generated billions of dollars in economic activity.
- Advocated for the construction of the Rochester International Airport, which has made Rochester more accessible to businesses and tourists.
Community Development:
- Established the Rochester Public Library, which provides access to education, information, and cultural enrichment for all residents.
- Supported the development of affordable housing and other initiatives to improve the quality of life for all Rochesterians.
Civic Leadership:
- Served on the Rochester City Council for 20 years, including two terms as mayor.
- Led the city through periods of significant growth and change.
- Fostered a spirit of collaboration and cooperation among community leaders.
Lawrence Sorensen’s Business Accomplishments
Lawrence Sorensen was a highly successful businessman who built a thriving insurance agency that served countless clients for over 40 years.
State Farm Agency:
- Opened his own State Farm agency in Rochester, Minnesota, in 1972.
- Consistently received top awards for performance and customer service.
- Built a strong team of dedicated employees who provided exceptional service to clients.
Insurance Industry Recognition:
- Recognized as a top producer and leader within the State Farm organization.
- Served as a mentor and trainer for other insurance agents.
Customer Satisfaction:
- Known for his integrity, professionalism, and dedication to his customers.
- Went above and beyond to ensure that his clients were well-protected and satisfied.
Lawrence Sorensen’s Personal Life
Lawrence Sorensen was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He lived a full and happy life, surrounded by family and friends.
Family:
- Married his high school sweetheart, Mary Ann, in 1960.
- Raised three children: Lori, Scott, and Anne.
- Adored his grandchildren and spent countless hours playing with them.
Friendships:
- Cherished his friendships and had a wonderful sense of humor.
- Enjoyed spending time with friends golfing, fishing, and traveling.
- Actively involved in the Rochester Rotary Club and other community groups.
Lawrence Sorensen’s Hobbies and Interests
Lawrence Sorensen had a wide range of hobbies and interests that he enjoyed throughout his life.
Music:
- Was an accomplished pianist and loved playing for his family and friends.
- Attended numerous concerts and supported local music organizations.
Golf:
- Was an avid golfer and enjoyed spending time on the golf course with friends and family.
- Member of the Rochester Golf and Country Club.
Fishing:
- Enjoyed fishing in the lakes and rivers of Minnesota.
- Often took his family on fishing trips and created many cherished memories.
Travel:
- Had a passion for travel and visited numerous countries around the world.
- Experienced different cultures and made lasting friendships along the way.
Community Involvement
Lawrence Sorensen was deeply involved in his community and dedicated himself to making a difference.
Rochester Rotary Club:
- Was a dedicated member of the Rochester Rotary Club for over 30 years.
- Served as president of the club twice and received the Paul Harris Fellow Award.
- Participated in numerous community service projects and supported local charities.
United Way of Olmsted County:
- Actively involved in the United Way of Olmsted County and served on the board of directors.
- Contributed to annual fundraising campaigns and supported community programs.
Boy Scouts of America:
- Was a dedicated volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America for over 20 years.
- Served as a scoutmaster and mentor to young boys, helping them develop leadership and life skills.
Lawrence Sorensen’s Influence on Education
Lawrence Sorensen was a strong advocate for education and supported initiatives that expanded access to learning opportunities for all.
Rochester Public Library:
- Played a key role in establishing the Rochester Public Library, which provides a wide range of educational resources and programs for all ages.
- Served on the library board of trustees and supported fundraising efforts.
University of Minnesota:
- Was a proud graduate of the University of Minnesota.
- Contributed to the university as a member of the President’s Council and the Minnesota Alumni Association.
- Supported student scholarships and research initiatives.
Early Childhood Education:
- Recognized the importance of early childhood education and supported programs that provided high-quality learning experiences for young children.
- Contributed to the establishment of Head Start programs in Rochester.
Lawrence Sorensen’s Impact on Healthcare
Lawrence Sorensen’s work in the insurance industry allowed him to make a significant impact on the healthcare system in Rochester.
Mayo Clinic:
- Provided insurance coverage to countless Mayo Clinic patients and employees.
- Supported Mayo Clinic’s research and innovation initiatives.
- Served on the advisory board of the Mayo Clinic Alumni Association.
Saint Marys Hospital:
- Partnered with Saint Marys Hospital to provide insurance coverage and support patient care initiatives.
- Contributed to the hospital’s expansion and renovation projects.
Olmsted Medical Center:
- Worked closely with Olmsted Medical Center to ensure access to quality healthcare for all residents.
- Supported the hospital’s community outreach programs and educational initiatives.
Lawrence Sorensen’s Legacy
Lawrence Sorensen’s legacy will live on through the countless people he touched during his extraordinary life. His impact on Rochester will continue to be felt for generations to come.
Leadership:
- Served as a role model for community leaders and inspired others to make a difference.
- Fostered a spirit of cooperation and collaboration among community organizations.
- Left a lasting legacy of ethical and responsible leadership.
Service:
- Dedicated his life to serving others through his work, volunteerism, and philanthropy.
- Made a significant contribution to the community through his involvement in numerous organizations.
- Set an example of compassion, empathy, and generosity.
Impact:
- Made a lasting impact on the city of Rochester through his contributions to economic development, healthcare, education, and community life.
- Created a better future for all Rochesterians through his tireless efforts and dedication.
