Community Mourns Loss of Beloved Agricultural Leader Larry Kraemer

Lawrence P. Kraemer, Jr., a cherished member of the Placentia-Yorba Linda community, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2025, surrounded by family. Known affectionately as Larry, he was celebrated not only for his dedication to family and friends but also for his significant contributions to agriculture and sustainable water management in Southern California.

Born on January 30, 1934, in Fullerton, California, Larry was raised in a close-knit family environment in Placentia. His parents, Lawrence Prudencio Sr. and Kathleen Kraemer, instilled in him the values of family support and community involvement. Larry attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and graduated from Fullerton High School before pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Notre Dame, where he graduated in 1956 and participated in ROTC.

Following his graduation, Larry served in the US Navy for two years, stationed at Mare Island, California. Instead of accepting an engineering position at IBM in Endicott, New York, he chose to return to his roots in agriculture, continuing his father’s legacy. Initially working in the orange groves of Placentia, he later expanded his endeavors into Riverside County.

In 1960, Larry married his lifelong partner, Sheila Mary Thompson, after meeting her on a blind date. Together, they raised five children and fostered a home where family dinners were a cherished tradition. In 1964, he and his brother, Don, established a citrus grove in the Woodcrest area, where they worked side by side for nearly four decades. Their partnership exemplified mutual respect and commitment, leaving a lasting legacy in the local agricultural community.

Larry’s dedication extended beyond farming; he was actively involved in several boards, including a family land development partnership for over 50 years and the Orange County Water District from 1977 to 2002. His efforts in water management initiatives significantly impacted the community, focusing on progressive and sustainable practices to ensure resource availability for future generations.

His personal interests included camping, golfing, boating, woodworking, hunting, and various sports activities. During summers at Newport Beach and Lake Powell, Larry took the time to teach each of his children essential skills like body surfing and water skiing, creating lasting memories that they cherish.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Sheila; his sister, Karen Kraemer (Dan); and his five children, Deborah Adam (George), Mark Kraemer (Sheila), Larry Kraemer III (Janice), Therese Doyle (Dave), and Matthew Kraemer (Candace). He also leaves behind 17 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever hold him in their hearts.

A recitation of the Rosary will take place on January 31, 2026, at 9:30 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, located at 717 Bradford Avenue, Placentia, California, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 AM. The community is invited to honor Larry’s legacy, which is marked by his unwavering commitment to family, faith, and community service.