Larry YoderSYRACUSE – Larry Yoder, 86, of Syracuse, passed away on Sept. 1, 2022, at his home.
He was born on March 14, 1936, in Wakarusa, to Ray and Mary Freed Yoder. He was a U.S. Army veteran. He retired after a career in sales. He was a member of the Wawasee Lakeside Chapel, Syracuse Eagles and Plymouth Moose Lodge.
He is survived by his significant other, Janie Leach, of Syracuse; and her children: Jessica (Mike) Barger and Joe (Kate) Leach; and the grandchildren; two daughters: Heather (Doug) Fiandt, of Warsaw; and Kacy (John) Hopper, of Logansport; seven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren. He was preceded by two brothers.
Larry loved Fort Myers Beach and enjoyed staying at his home in Bonita Springs during the winter months. If you went to visit, a spring training baseball game was sure to be on the schedule. He was a huge Chicago Cubs fan, IU basketball fan and a loyal Notre Dame football fan, holding season tickets for many years. His greatest love was Lake Wawasee. He taught his children and grandchildren how to ski behind his beloved boat, “Old Yeller.” Every Sunday you could be sure to see him at boat-in worship handing out programs and holding “Sunday school” back at “Yodes” after the service. He enjoyed the comings and goings of many friends and family through the years, as so many gathered at pier 770 to enjoy the lake. “Yodes,” sitting at his famous picnic table and giving you a quick wave as you went by in your boat. Larry lived life to the fullest. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
There will be a luncheon from 1 to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 9 at the North Webster American Legion followed by a brief memorial service and military honors at 2 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Lakeland Youth Center Sports. Eastlund Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
