The Mysterious Double Life of Lawrence Bader: From Boating Accident to Omaha TV Producer

Dec 26

Lawrence Bader's Bizarre Journey from Akron to Omaha

Lawrence Joseph Bader, a seemingly ordinary man born in Akron, Ohio, took a turn down a mysterious path that led him from the shores of Lake Erie to the bustling city of Omaha, leaving a trail of unanswered questions in his wake.

Bader's life appeared idyllic—World War II veteran, family man, and cookware salesman for a reputable corporation. However, beneath the surface, a different narrative unfolded. In 1957, with debts piling up and tax evasion looming, Bader embarked on a fateful fishing trip that would forever alter the course of his life.

Larry Bader's Disappearance

On May 15, 1957, Larry informed his pregnant wife, Mary Lou, that he was heading to Cleveland for business before going fishing on Lake Erie. As a storm rolled in, Larry rented a motorboat with a suitcase in tow. Hours later, the storm hit, and Larry never returned. His rented boat, damaged and abandoned, sparked fears, but Larry's body was never found. For three years, Mary Lou struggled to support their four children, surviving on social security payments. Larry's life insurance payout provided financial relief, and Mary Lou tried to live her life as best she could as a widow.

The Rise of John Fritz Johnson: Omaha's Eccentric Bartender

Meanwhile, over 800 miles away in Omaha, a man named John Fritz Johnson emerged on the scene. A charismatic bartender, radio personality, and archery enthusiast, Fritz became a local celebrity. In 1961, he married and built a family, overcoming a cancer scare that cost him an eye.

Fritz's perfect life, however, unraveled when a chance encounter in 1965 revealed a startling revelation— he bore an uncanny resemblance to Lawrence Bader. The man, now known as Fritz, vehemently denied any connection, even after confronted by family members.

Lawrence Bader's Return

Despite Fritz's denial, Larry's family insisted on a meeting. Confronted by Larry's brothers and niece, Fritz underwent fingerprinting, confirming his true identity. Still, Fritz clung to his alternate life, claiming amnesia. As the truth emerged, Larry's life crumbled. His marriage dissolved, he was fired from his job, and Larry’s old debts resurfaced. Fritz returned to bartending, sending part of his income to his estranged wives.

Larry Bader's Final Days

In 1966, Larry's cancer returned, leading to his demise at the age of 39. Despite the tumultuous last years, a chance encounter provided closure for Mary Lou and the children. The question remains—was Larry a mastermind orchestrating his disappearance, or a victim of dissociative amnesia?

Over five decades later, the mystery of Lawrence Bader endures. The chance encounter at a Chicago sporting goods show offered closure, but the truth remains elusive.

Join us on "And Then They Were Gone" as we delve into the perplexing tale of Lawrence Bader—a story of deception, identity, and the enigma that lingers over one man's life. Subscribe now to uncover the secrets that continue to baffle investigators and captivate true crime enthusiasts.