Claude "Rick" Lauer

Claude Ellis “Rick” Lauer, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026. He was born on December 21, 1950, in Olaney, Illinois, to Claude Ellis O'Harrelle and Lolita Posey Lauer.

Rick dedicated 30 years of service to the VA Hospital, where he built lasting friendships and made a meaningful impact on many lives before retiring. In 1996, he followed his entrepreneurial spirit and purchased the beloved A&W Restaurant in Boonville, where he became well-known not only for flipping burgers, but for his humor and playful personality. In his younger days, you could often find him at A&W joking with coworkers and making everyone laugh. A&W wasn’t just a job it was his joy and pride.

Rick was truly a “people person” who never met a stranger. He loved life and embraced every adventure that came his way. In his later years, you might have seen him zipping around town on his electric scooter, sometimes veering into a bit of mud or off a sidewalk with a grin. He also loved driving his classic 1965 Mustang, often cruising through the neighborhood and enjoying the open road. Rick lived boldly, laughed often, and made memories everywhere he went.

He was affectionately known by many names “Rick,” “King Rick,” “Pops,” “Tricky,” and most lovingly, “Dad.”
Rick is survived by his devoted soulmate and love of 54 years, Janet, who will miss him immensely. He is also survived by his children, Sean (Gayla) Lauer and Nicole (John) Walker all of Boonville; brother, William “Bill” (Becky) Lauer of Lake Ozark; grandchildren, Koal Lauer of Minot, North Dakota, Kinley and Kinze Lauer, Avery (Krissy Campbell) Lauer, Ethan (Gillian) Gunderson, all of Boonville, and Kennedy (Wyatt) Shay of Bunceton. 

Rick was preceded in death by his parents Claude and Lolita; brothers Theodore, Bruce and Bob Lauer, and granddaughter Madison Walker of Boonville. 
Please come help us Celebrate Rick’s amazing life on Thursday February 12th at Markland-Yager Funeral Home from 6-8pm. There will also be a gathering of family and friends at A&W Restaurant in Boonville for Root Beer and Stories after the service.

Condolences may be shared at www.marklandyager.com.

Markland-Yager Funeral Home is honored to serve the Lauer family.

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