Lawrence John "Larry" Holtel

Lawrence John “Larry” Holtel, age 100, passed on September 6th, 2025, at his home in Oldenburg, Indiana, surrounded by his loving family. Born to Henry and Mary (nee: Giesting) Holtel, on April 18th, 1925, in Oldenburg, Indiana. Larry married Betty Kaiser on April 22nd, 1950, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Oldenburg. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy during World War II. He was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church, Batesville V.F.W. Post #3183, and the Batesville Eagle Arie #1130. Larry was a proud lifelong resident of Oldenburg. He spent his lifetime as wood worker, not only as in his profession at Romweber Furniture for 40 years, but also as his favorite pastime. There was always a daily wood project to be had, he would say “I want to make a little sawdust every day.” He built the house he lived in on Vine Street and said he loved having the best view in town. Larry was a walking historian of the Village of Spires and loved sharing his knowledge with family and friends of all ages, in some cases over a glass of homemade wine. He was a member of many, if not all, of the volunteer organizations in Oldenburg throughout his life, including 30 years at Oldenburg Fire Department. He was awarded the Indiana Sycamore of the Wabash Award by the Governor for his contributions to his country and his community. Larry will be remembered for his steadfast service, quiet strength, and the deep love he held for his family, community, and country. Larry is survived by son Robert “Bob” (Shawn) Holtel of Oldenburg; daughters Mary Jo Beck of Batesville, Nancy (Steve) Marticke of Ft Myers Florida, and Karen (Mark) Pratt of Osgood, Indiana; daughter-in-law Sally Holtel of Cincinnati, Ohio; grandchildren Jim, Brian, Lisa, Eric, Kevin, Leslie, Katherine, Tori, and Cassie; step-granddaughter Marsha; great-grandchildren Alex, Emma, Sam, Ethan, Logan, Madilyn, Leo, Amelia, Bernadette, and one on the way. Larry was preceded in death by his wife Betty Holtel; son Glen Holtel, brothers Alphonse Holtel, Paul Holtel, Clarence Holtel, Ralph Holtel; sisters Martha Werner and Cleona Barnhorst and son-in-law Andy Beck. Visitation is Friday, September 12th, from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m., at Weigel Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow on Saturday, September 13th at 10 a.m. at the Holy Family Church, with Fr. John Barker, OFM officiating. The burial will be at Holy Family Cemetery in Oldenburg, Indiana immediately following with military graveside rites being conducted by the Ripley County Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #3183 and by the Prell-Bland American Legion Post #271 of Batesville. Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Family Church, Margaret Mary Health Hospice, or Oldenburg Freudenfest Inc.

Lawrence John "Larry" Holtel

April 18, 1925 - September 6, 2025