Lawrence Oeltjenbruns

lawrence  oeltjenbruns
Lawrence "Larry" Oeltjenbruns age 72 of Shell Rock died Sunday, February 11, 2024 at Allen Unity Point Hospital in Waterloo. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, February 15, 2024, at Hugeback Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory - Olson Chapel in Nashua. Friends may greet the family from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. Thursday, February 15, 2024, prior to the Memorial Service at the funeral home on Thursday. Lawrence Allen Oeltjenbruns, affectionately known as Larry or "Fuzz" to those who knew him best, passed away at the age of 72 on February 11, 2024, in Waterloo, Iowa. Born on March 15, 1951, in Santa Cruz, California, son of Betty (Allen, De Costa) Bage. Larry was raised by Merle and Louise Oeltjenbruns. His early years were spent in Charles City and later along the Cedar River in Nashua. He spent many hours water skiing and was an avid bowler, and also kept busy working at Ray's Pastime in Charles City. After graduating from Nashua High School in 1971, Larry immediately showed his commitment to his country by enlisting in the United States Army. He served honorably from 1971 to 1973. During his time in service, he married Jeanette Oeltjenbruns on June 24, 1972, at St. John Lutheran Church in Nashua. The young couple's journey began in Manhattan, Kansas, where they lived until Larry was honorably discharged. Following his service, they settled in Waverly for five years before moving to Shell Rock, where their family grew with the addition of two cherished children, Bret and Bethany. As a hobby he loved DJ'ing for celebrations and parties - if the music was loud, he was there! Larry's professional life was as varied as it was fulfilling. He began his career at Bantam in Waverly, then Brent Industries, Shell Rock, and transitioned to work for John Deere in the foundry in Waterloo. Always ready for new challenges, Larry then lent his skills to Rich Weipert Cleaning Services for several years before finding his niche with the maintenance department at Wal-Mart in Waverly. There he became an integral part of the operation, dedicating 20 years of service until his well-deserved retirement. Beyond his work and service, Larry was a man who embraced life with a spirited and friendly demeanor. His generosity of spirit was evident to all who crossed his path. Larry shared a passion for the outdoors, owning a camper in Highlandville, where he and Jeanette enjoyed the tranquility of nature and made many wonderful and long-lasting friendships. Larry, an avid fisherman, reveled in the serene waters of Northeast Iowa's trout streams, finding both peace and excitement in that hobby. The camper was his happy place. He will be missed by a community of friends who enjoyed his company. Travel and road trips were another source of joy for Larry. He made many fishing trips to Cody, WY, and also embarked on journeys with Jeanette, sometimes with a destination in mind, but more often than not, they would venture wherever the road took them. It was on these spontaneous adventures that Larry found his greatest peace, with the open road as his canvas and the company of his wife. Above all, Larry enjoyed the company of his family and friends, creating lasting memories with them, whether through simple gatherings or family trips. His fun-loving nature instilled a zest for life in his children and grandchildren.. Larry is survived by his wife, Jeanette Oeltjenbruns of Shell Rock, IA; son, Bret (Tara) Oeltjenbruns of Burnsville, MN; daughter, Bethany (Sam) Renz of Waverly, IA; two grandchildren, Payton Oeltjenbruns of Burnsville, MN, and Dawson Renz of Waverly, IA; sister, Kathy (De Costa) (Dick) York of Castle Rock, WA; sister-in-law, Janice Bennor of Ionia, IA, niece, Jenifer Mehmen, nephews, David Mehmen and Joshua Santana, and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Anna Santana, brother-in-law, Bob Santana; niece, Chanel Santana, mother and father-in-law, Larry's in-laws, Max and Maxine Bennor; sister-in-law, Judy Bennor.

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  1. One of the nicest guys I’ve ever met. Always there to greet me with a hug and a smile. So sorry for your loss family. Rest in peace Larry. Love you man.
    Rory

  2. Jeanette, I’m so sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. He was so fun to chat with at Walmart. Praying and sending a hug of comfort to you and your family.

  3. Jeanette and families, Our hearts are heavy. We always enjoyed working with Larry at Walmart. Had many good visits over the year we all worked together. Our deepest sympathy to all of you at this very difficult time.

  4. Jeanette, Bethany and Bret and families, you have our sincere sympathy on the loss of Larry. We are so sorry for your loss. Prayers for comfort sent your way.

  5. Larry, you will be missed dearly. Your kindness and generosity will never be forgotten. Highlandville won’t be the same without you.

  6. We’re so sorry for your loss. It sounds like a lot of your personality came from your dad. Certain traits live on in us. Treasure your memories and know that he is well taken care of now. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

  7. Jeanette and family: I am very sorry to hear of your loss. May your memories of Larry comfort you all. Now he is free from pain and is at peace. You are all in my prayers. Love, Phyllis

  8. Kathy: My sister and I grew up next door to you on johnson st in charles city when you were small and we remember your brother and sister as great kids. Sorry to hear about your brother
    chuck and kay kirkendall

  9. Jeannette, Bret and Bethany, we are so sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. Hold your memories close, knowing that Larry’s spirit will always be with you. You all remain in our prayers.

  10. We knew Larry from years of camping at his happy place – Highlandville! His was always a friendly face every summer and we hate to hear of his passing. Our annual summer stay in Highlandville won’t be the same without him.
    Alton and Lisa Waltman
    Moselle, Mississippi

  11. Jeanette, Sincere Sympathy to you and your family.
    We so enjoyed our visits with Larry while camping in Highlandville. He was always so kind at inviting us to stop to sit and visit when we were out for our daily walk. RIP Larry! Jerry & Glena Nolting


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