Lawrence "Larry" Broenneke

Lawrence “Larry” Broenneke passed away on November 6, 2026, at the age of 89.

Larry was born on December 26, 1936, in Moscow, Idaho, to C.H. and Mary (Hasfurther) Broenneke. He graduated from The Ursuline Academy in Moscow and spent much of his life connected to the community that shaped him.

Larry built his career as a service manager for several Ford dealerships and eventually Chevrolet. He was known for his strong work ethic and the steady commitment he brought to his profession throughout the years.

Larry met Doris Diettert in 1958 while studying at the University of Idaho. They married and began their family together before eventually divorcing. In 1978, Larry met Karen Gaunt while she was in Moscow attending the University of Idaho. The two grew close and were married in June 1979, beginning a loving and lasting relationship that spanned 47 years.

Larry loved sports, watching his grandchildren, and following all University of Idaho athletics. He also had a love for travel and adventure. Over the years, his family enjoyed vacations throughout the Pacific Northwest, including trips to Yellowstone, Glacier National Park, Portland, and the Washington and Oregon coasts. He was actively involved with his sons in Boy Scouts, and one summer the entire family took part in a 50-mile trek along the Washington coast.

Larry and Karen shared many adventures together, traveling to England, Scotland, France, Hawaii, San Francisco, and along the California coast. He also had the opportunity to explore his family history on a trip across the Midwest, tracing his ancestry and visiting his father's birthplace in Seneca, Kansas.

In 1983, Larry moved away from Moscow to support Karen in her career. They eventually returned to Moscow in the mid-1990s. In 2012 Larry and Karen moved to Lewiston.

Larry was also deeply involved in his community and faith. He served as president of Pregnancy Counseling Services for three years and was a member of the Moscow Knights of Columbus beginning in 1997. Music was another great love in Larry's life. He especially enjoyed singing at church and participated in choirs at every parish he attended. He was fortunate to have opportunities to perform solos, with “Ave Maria” being his favorite.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Karen; his children, Noel (Lori) Broenneke, Robin (Pam) Broenneke, Brad (Andrea) Broenneke, and Heidi (Jeff) Powell; and his stepchildren, Michael (Alex) and Matthew Gaunt. He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, all of whom were an important part of his life.

Larry was preceded in death by his grandson, Nick, as well as his siblings, Coreen, Ike, and Joyce.

A viewing will be held Thursday, November 12, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Short's Funeral Chapel, located at 1225 E 6th ST, Moscow, Idaho.

A Mass will be held on November 13, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, located at 618 East 1st Street in Moscow, Idaho.

The family invites you to make donations to the Lewis Clark Animal Shelter & Wish Medical Women's Health.