Lawrence “Larry” B. Blecher

Lawrence “Larry” B. Blecher left this world for his eternal home in paradise on July 30, 2024 at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri. His wife, Linda, was by his side every step of the way until his final day, succumbing to a courageous battle with cancer. Despite his pain and suffering, he stayed true to his character, staying strong and never giving up until the very end.
Larry was born in Oakland, California on September 6, 1945 to the late Wilbert “Dee” Blecher and Betty Jean (Thompson) Blecher. Being the oldest of six siblings, Larry carried the duty and responsibility of tending to his younger siblings. Qualities learned during this time would help him be the best daddy and papa later in his life. Larry spent his childhood growing up in the Tunas area, where he graduated from Tunas High School in 1963. Upon graduation, Larry joined the Navy in 1963, serving for 7 years, including active duty combat service during the Vietnam War.
After the conclusion of his military heroism, he returned back home. The next few years would turn a chapter in Larry’s life that he recalls as the best thing that ever happened to him, the time he met the love of his life, Linda. Larry drove a 1970 blue Chevy Camaro and Linda drove a 1969 blue Chevy Camaro. The two came across one another while cruising around and around the Buffalo square.
Larry knew that to win her heart, and ultimately her love, he would need to earn the respect of Linda’s dad, Lennis. He would spend countless hours and days working until his muscles were sore and his hands cut and calloused. He would buck hay, pick up rocks, anything her dad had to do on the farm, Larry wanted to prove he could do, too. Ultimately Lennis allowed Linda to date Larry under two stipulations; they could only date on Saturday night and Larry must attend church with the family on Sunday morning. Lennis’ guidance enabled Larry to make another decision that would change his life forever; accepting Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior. Larry was baptised at the Louisburg Christian Church. That would be the same little church where Larry and Linda took their vows of marriage on March 4, 1972.
Larry spent every waking moment working to provide for his family. He could do anything and everything. He would tackle any job with ferociousness and dedication. There wasn’t a task or job Larry couldn’t complete. He would get the job done whether it be by skill, knowledge, blunt force trauma or demolition/reconstruction. Some careers that Larry held involved carpentry and mechanical work. Most of his professional career saw him working for Associated Grocers, Preston Refrigeration (retired 1988) and Hiland Dairy (retired 1996).
Retirement life brought Larry much joy in various ways. He was now able to spend time doing the things he loved; building up his farming empire and being the best daddy and papa to his children and grandchildren. Larry would spend hours getting lost in the woods. He greatly enjoyed hunting, being on his John Deere tractor, clearing timber (more like demolishing), and enjoying his beautiful farm admiring God’s beauty from his window. Sadly Larry leaves behind four children and seven grandchildren that he loved dearly. Nothing brought him more happiness than his children. He spent hours playing on the floor and exploring the new adventures with his grandbabies. There wasn’t anything better than watching him rock his babies to sleep while he watched them sleep in his arms.
Larry is survived by his wife of 52 years, Linda E. (Boggs) Blecher and sons Tim Blecher (Amy) Florida, Sean Blecher Buffalo MO, Shelby Blecher (Jennifer) Fair Grove MO and daughter Lacey Blecher Zanzie (Mike) Fair Grove MO. His grandchildren, Tara, Taylor, Bradley, Ryan, Karly, McKenna, Jett, Maverick and Bentley. His brother Bill and sister Patty and lots of nieces and nephews.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents Dee and Betty Blecher, Trudy Darby, Randy Blecher and Ronnie Blecher.
Larry will be missed for his kind, loving, caring sacrifice for his family. His humor, laughter and stories will be cherished and talked about long after his passing.
In lieu of flowers you are invited to donate to the New Hope Baptist Church cemetery fund or a charity of your choice in his name.