Larry Dean Lotz, age 86, of Bellville, Ohio went home to be with his Lord and Savior on February 5, 2026 at his home, passing peacefully in his sleep.
He was born on December 9, 1939, at home in Knox County, to the late Charles and Neva (Yarman) Lotz.
On December 19, 1964 he married the love of his life, Carolyn Beth Smith, at the Presbyterian Church in Fredericktown, Ohio. Together they have shared 61 wonderful years of marriage.
Professionally Larry worked as a real estate broker and auctioneer for several years until the Lord changed his heart, and called him into a life of ministry. For several years he pastored at the former River of Life Community Church in Butler, Ohio and at La Crosse Christian Church in La Crosse, Wisconsin, and also served as an elder at the Living Word Christian Church.
Larry loved hunting, fishing, and spending time with family at Lake Cumberland, Kentucky, where they all enjoyed water skiing. He greatly enjoyed renting a houseboat and inviting family friends to spend some time out on the water enjoying the lake. His greatest joy in life though, was the Lord using him to lead others to salvation.
He is survived by his loving wife Carolyn, children Devin and Julie both of Bellville, and grandsons Brandon and Caleb both of La Crosse, Wisconsin.
In addition to his parents, Larry is preceded in death by his siblings Gerald, Eileen, Leo, Jim, Norma Jean, Donna, Pat, and Dick.
A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 11 a.m. at Fusion Church Delaware Street, 47 Delaware St., Lexington, Ohio 44904. Guests are invited to share testimonies and memories of their time with Larry.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve Larry’s family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence on his obituary page at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Homes, Bellville/Butler Chapel
Website: www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com