Lawrence "Poncho" Gehrig

Lawrence Jerome “Poncho” Gehrig was born on January 11, 1953, in Breckenridge, Minnesota, to John and Wilfreda (Janu) Gehrig. He grew up in Barnesville, Minnesota, where he attended school and graduated with the Class of 1971.

Trucking was more than a career for Poncho; it was a way of life. In 1988, he purchased his first home and his first new Freightliner truck and began driving independently for E.W. Wylie. Over the course of his career, Poncho logged more than three million miles on the road. For many years, he worked as an owner-operator while partnering with Al Jerger. Through the years, a few of the trucks he drove included a 1979 GMC and 1994 and 1999 Freightliners.

In 1992, Poncho was united in marriage to Joan Nelson. Together, they made their home in the Pelican Lake area until 2005. In 2018, they retired to Harlingen, Texas, where Poncho especially enjoyed the sunshine and taking walks with his beloved dog, Nora.

When Poncho wasn't behind the wheel, he made plenty of time for hunting and fishing. An avid fisherman, his adventures took him to waters near and far, including Canada and the Gulf Coast. He enjoyed the experience just as much as the catch.

Poncho will be remembered for his quick wit, wonderful sense of humor, huge smile, and unmistakable laugh. He was always willing to lend a hand to someone who needed it and had a special way of bringing fun wherever he went. He also loved watching Wheel of Fortune.

His nieces and nephews knew another side of Poncho: the “fun uncle.” At Christmas, he would arrive with one big present for a different child each year. Money trees, gold watches, beautiful jewelry, and other unexpected treasures were among the surprises that made Christmas with Uncle Poncho memorable.

Poncho faced cancer with determination after first being diagnosed in 2011. He enjoyed many more years before the cancer returned in 2025.

Lawrence “Poncho” Gehrig died on March 7, 2026, in Harlingen, Texas, surrounded by the loving care of his wife, Joan.

He is survived by his wife, Joan Gehrig of Harlingen, Texas; stepson, Michael Wagner of Baker, Minnesota; sister, Regina Hathaway of Yukon, Oklahoma; and many nieces, nephews, and great friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Wilfreda Gehrig; brothers, Jerome, Frank, John, Louis, and David Gehrig; and sisters, Rosella Wagner, Darlene Tucker, Elizabeth Green, Deloris Preller, and Ruth Gehrig.

After more than three million miles on the road, countless fishing adventures, and a lifetime filled with laughter, Poncho leaves behind many stories and memories that will continue to be shared by those who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Korsmo Funeral and Cremation Service on Friday, October 2, 2026, from 5-6:30 PM, with a time to remember starting at 6:30 PM.

Online memories and condolences may be shared at www.KorsmoFuneralService.com