Larry Leon Schoof

Larry Leon Schoof, age 81, of Hamlet, Indiana, passed away Friday evening, October 16, 2026, at Northwest Hospital in LaPorte, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories, a legacy of hard work, and a family who will forever be grateful for his unwavering love and devotion.

Larry was born on June 18, 1945, in LaPorte, Indiana, to the late Lawrence William and Gladys Annette (Wilhelm) Schoof. He was a 1963 graduate of Union Township High School and proudly served his country in the United States Army Reserves.

In February of 1966, a chance encounter at the Frost Top Root Beer Stand in LaPorte would forever change the course of Larry's life. It was there that he met a young carhop named Liz Colston, who quickly captured his heart. Their romance blossomed, and by April, the two were engaged. On July 30, 1966, Larry and Liz were married, beginning a beautiful love story that would span more than 60 years. Together, they built a life rooted in love, laughter, hard work, and a deep commitment to their family.

Larry spent many years working as the store manager for Loren's Pool and Supply in LaPorte, where he became well-known for his knowledge, skill, and ability to solve just about any swimming pool problem. If someone was having trouble with their pool water, Larry was the man to call! His dependable nature and willingness to lend a hand made him someone others knew they could count on.

Although Larry worked professionally in the pool industry, at heart, he was always a farmer. Raised with an appreciation for the land and the rewards of an honest day's work, he carried those values with him throughout his life. He found great satisfaction in tending his garden, growing fresh vegetables, and providing food for his family. And, of course, Larry absolutely loved his tractor! Whether working the ground, caring for his animals, or simply spending time outdoors, he was happiest with his hands busy and the land beneath his feet. Hunting and fishing were also lifelong passions, not simply for recreation, but as another way to provide for those he loved.

Larry also knew how to enjoy life and the company of good friends. An accomplished bowler, he spent many years participating in leagues at both Quick's Lanes and T-Bird Lanes, where he enjoyed the friendly competition and camaraderie. He was also an avid golfer who appreciated time spent on the course. Larry and Liz loved opening their home to family, neighbors, and friends, hosting countless cookouts, gatherings, and celebrations over the years. Their home was especially lively during the summer months, when pool parties brought everyone together for afternoons filled with swimming, good food, conversation, and laughter. Those gatherings created treasured memories that will live on in the hearts of everyone who shared them.

When it was time to relax, Larry could often be found enjoying an old black-and-white Western, an episode of Walker, Texas Ranger, or just about any movie starring Chuck Norris. In his later years, he developed an interest in watching cooking shows, particularly those featuring Bobby Flay and his famous burgers. Whether it was a classic Western showdown or something delicious being prepared in the kitchen, Larry appreciated the simple pleasures of a quiet evening at home.

Larry had a particularly soft spot for animals, especially his beloved cats. He cared deeply for his farm animals, and it seemed that every stray cat in the neighborhood somehow knew the Schoof home was a safe place to find food, warmth, and kindness. Larry never had much trouble finding room for one more. His compassion for animals was yet another reflection of his generous heart and gentle nature.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 60 years, Liz Schoof; his two daughters, Christine Loraine (Curt) Cable and Shelley Renee (Marc) Condo; seven grandchildren, Nicole Cravens, Haley Cable, Ryan Cravens, Audrey (Trevor) Klibinski, Cade Condo, Cassie Condo, and Kale Condo; and one great-grandson, Wylder Klibinski. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Dottie Schoof, Dee Hughes and Sheila Colston, and brother-in-law Hank Colston, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Gladys Schoof; and his two brothers, Arnold Gene Schoof and Melvin Richard Schoof.

Funeral services for Larry will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services in LaPorte, Indiana. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Larry will be laid to rest at Tracy Lutheran Cemetery in Hamlet, Indiana.

Larry will be remembered as a man of simple pleasures, steadfast devotion, and extraordinary generosity. He found happiness in the richness of the soil, the satisfaction of a good day's work, the laughter of family gathered around the pool, and the joy of sharing what he had grown with others. He understood that a meaningful life was not about how much one accumulated, but how much one gave. From the vegetables he quietly left for friends to the stray cats he welcomed into his home, Larry's kindness was woven into the everyday moments of his life. His greatest legacy will forever be the love he planted, the family he nurtured, and the countless lives made better simply because he was part of them. Though his earthly work is finished, the seeds of love and generosity he sowed will continue to grow for generations to come.