COLUMBUS
Larry Marion Fonner went to his heavenly home at 12:30 a.m. Monday, March 28, 2022, at the age of 88.
Larry was born September 4, 1933, in Newman, IL, the son of Frances Marion (Pat) and Leon Fonner. He grew up in and around Decatur, IL before moving to Columbus in 1997.
Larry celebrated 65 years of marriage on Feb. 17, 2022 with the love of his life, Virginia Buth Fonner who survives. He is also survived by the family he cherished; son, Alan (Cheryl) Fonner of Gordonville, TX; daughter, Diane (Mike) Robbins of Columbus; grandchildren, Drew (Kari) Robbins of Fishers, Eric (Nikki) Robbins of Columbus, Laura (Payden) Bravenec of Dallas, TX, and grandchildren Stephanie (Drew) Denoyer, Angela Mullett, both of Texas: great grandchildren, Nash, Hayes and Hunter Robbins, Landon Robbins, PJ Bravenec, and great grandchildren, Drake and Danae Denoyer and Madisyn Mullett and sister, Barb Johnson of Bethany, IL.
He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers and 1 sister.
Larry proudly served his country during the Korean War in the U.S. Army and was a graduate of Illinois State Normal University. Larry was a member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, an educator, coach and retired insurance executive. He was most proud of his children and grandchildren and enjoyed watching them participate in sports and other activities. Larry’s passions included spending time with his family, fly fishing, hunting and telling the best jokes ever. His ritual of extending the family prayer at special meals with “Just a minute” so he could add a personal touch, will forever be a family tradition.
Larry was an awarded athlete throughout his early life. A three-sport high school athlete he was inducted into the Mt. Zion, IL High School 1st Hall of Fame class. He played 2 years of basketball and football at Illinois State Normal University and played 2 years of basketball with the 350 Infantry in Salzburg, Austria. Always the kindest, most helpful teacher/coach, he enjoyed watching young people grow in their skills and passions. He carried his love of coaching throughout all aspects of life; including a wide variety of sports teams, his children and his grandchildren.
In keeping with the family’s request, cremation has taken place and a private family celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to the Bartholomew County Historical Society or St. Peter’s Lutheran Church.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with Larry’s family at barkesweaverglick.com.
Arrangements were entrusted to Barkes, Weaver &Glick Funeral Home.
