Ladislaus "Lou" Metzinger, age 85 of Portage passed away Monday, June 19, 2023, at home. He was born on September 15, 1937, in Neusatz, Yugoslavia to the late Johann and Katharina Metzinger. During the second world war the family moved to Vienna, Austria. He and his parents emigrated to the United States in 1957. On July 10, 1998, he and his wife Sigrid proudly became United States citizens. Lou retired from Ceisel Masonry in Northbrook where he worked as a bricklayer.  He was a lifelong member of the 1st Chicago Bottle Club, and the Portage Historical Society. He was an avid collector of antiques which he thought were of great historical value to society and culture. He bowled his whole life and enjoyed woodworking. Above all, his greatest joy in life was his family and his grandchildren and great grandchildren who meant everything to him.

He is survived by his daughter, Renate (Ron Okamoto) Metzinger; grandchildren, Ashley (Brett) Przybylinski, Christopher (Danielle) Sholar, Brian (Lauren Konyk) Sholar; great grandchildren, Hunter, Anna, Kyla, and Alexandra; and best friend and life partner, Linda Dishno;

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sigrid Metzinger; his parents, Johann and Katharina Metzinger; and his brother, Johann Metzinger.

A funeral service for Lou will take place Thursday, June 22, 2023 at 12:00 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage with visitation from 10:00 am until the time of service at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery. For more information, please call (219) 762-3013. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com