Larry Robert ClodfelterLarry Robert Clodfelter, also known as “Clod” to everyone who had come to know him, passed peacefully on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022, at the age of 83.
Larry was born on April 16, 1939, in Goshen, to Richard and Helen Eyer Clodfelter. He and his sister, Nancy Clodfelter Buckner, grew up in the family home and business, Clodfelter Furniture, in Middlebury. Participating in 4-H, Larry grew award-winning vegetables ? a hobby he continued into adulthood. After graduation in 1957 from Middlebury High School, he attended Ball State University and briefly worked in the rail industry which fed his fascination for trains … continuing the family legacy.
Enlisting in the U.S. Army National Guard in 1961, Larry began a long career in service to his country and community, eventually becoming a trooper for the Indiana State Police in 1964 where he served for almost 25 years. Larry also volunteered his service as the president of the Turkey Creek Regional Sewer District. With safety in mind, he joined forces in the community in the founding of Wawasee Snowmobile Club ? “Hard Water Riders” ? where he also served as president. With a police scanner always buzzing in the background, Larry liked to relax at home enjoying crossword puzzles, word jumbles, NASCAR races and laughter-filled games of poker with his ISP “card club” buddies.
His greatest pride, however, was being a devoted husband to his wife Christine Wolff Clodfelter, who he married on March 1, 1964. Together, they enjoyed raising two boys, many visits to their cabin in Michigan, and spending time with their lifelong friends in Syracuse. Christine was his central purpose and the love of his life. He cared for her during a long battle with Alzheimer’s and never missed a single day to be with her. At long last, Larry will be by her side once again.
Larry is survived by two sons: Dan (Shelly) Clodfelter, of Syracuse; and Michael (Adrienne) Clodfelter, of Indianapolis; four grandchildren: Mack Clodfelter, of Columbia City; Landen (Kelary) Clodfelter, of Churubusco; Ryan (Whitney) Allee, of New Castle; and Brittnee Allee, of Noblesville; seven great-grandchildren; sister, Nancy (Clodfelter) Buckner, of Syracuse; nephew, Chris Buckner, of Syracuse; niece, Ashley Buckner, of Syracuse; and all his beloved extended family in the “Wolff” clan.
He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Clodfelter; his mother, Helen Eyer Clodfelter; his adored uncle, Robert “Benny” Clodfelter; and his wife, Christine Wolff Clodfelter.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, Aug. 25 at 5 p.m. at the Eastlund Funeral Home in Syracuse. Calling will be from 3 to 5 p.m. two hours prior to the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to Syracuse Fire Department, 402 N. Huntington St., Syracuse, IN 46567; or the Indiana State Police Alliance, http://www.indianasfinest.com/donate/.
