Lawrence Albert “Laurie” Kraus

Oct. 16, 1919 - June 25, 2004

Lawrence Albert “Laurie” Kraus, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and stepfather, went peacefully to his heavenly home on Friday, June 25, 2004. He had been residing at CapoBeach Extended Care when he was called by God to reunite him with his parents, brothers and sister.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Frances; brothers, Wally, John and Don; and sister, Edith.

Surviving family members, include his wife Iris, daughter, Shelly Jo Sigler, son Laurie II, grandchildren Rusty and Zach Sigler, Laurie III and Geoffrey Kraus; and great-grandchildren Alexis Marie and Karlie Renee Kraus. He also leaves stepsons Gregory Morgan and Scott Horgen.

Laurie was born in La Cañada to a pioneer family. He attended St. Elizabeth Elementary School and graduated from Muir High School in Pasadena in 1938.

He opened Valley Vogue Cleaners on Foothill Boulevard in 1941, which later evolved into Your Swimming Pool, offering pool service and supplies. He served as president of both the Lions and Rotary clubs, and was a member of the La Cañada Chamber of Commerce and the La Cañada Country Club.

Upon retiring after 45 years, Laurie and his wife, Iris, moved to San Clemente, where he formed a definite connection with the ocean and loved his deck view of the white water.

Laurie, who was very social, handsome and always impeccably attired, was admired and loved by many. He was a lover of his automobiles, past and present. He enjoyed all sports and conquered many through his individual efforts, despite the physical disability of losing a limb in an accident at age 8.

Laurie, called “Sir Lawrence” by his stepsons Greg and Scott, lived up to his royal title until his earthly departure. He will be loved and missed by his family and many dear friends.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Capistrano Beach Extended Care, Hospice Touch and San Clemente Presbyterian Church for the ministry and loving care they showered upon Laurie.

A celebration of Laurie’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, July 9, at San Clemente Presbyterian Church. The family requests that any donations in his memory be made to the San Clemente Presbyterian Memorial Fund, 119 N. Ave de la Estrella, San Clemente, CA 92672.