Lawrence Lee "Larry" Mentz

Lawrence Lee “Larry” Mentz, 92, of Findlay, IL, passed away at 8:55 a.m. Friday, October 31, 2025, at Shelbyville Manor, Shelbyville, IL.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, November 7, 2025, in Findlay Cemetery, Findlay, IL, with Pastor Mike Reynolds officiating. Military rites will be conducted by the Clarence Bixler American Legion Post # 409 of Findlay, IL. Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association or the Clarence Bixler American Legion. Arrangements are by Howe & Yockey Funeral Home, Shelbyville, IL.

Larry was born on August 29, 1933, in Shelbyville, IL, the son of Lawrence Harmon and Delcie (Lewis) Mentz. In November of 1950, Larry joined the United States Army and served his country during the Korean War. He married JoAnne Ward on March 7, 1959. Larry began working in the garage at Leach-Wilson Chevrolet in Shelbyville. He then was hired at Caterpillar in Decatur where he worked as a millwright, retiring after 42 years. Larry and JoAnne enjoyed square dancing, ballroom dancing, and taking their family boating. In his spare time, Larry could often be found mushroom hunting or going on trail rides with the horses. Larry and JoAnne attended the former Abundant Life Assembly Church in Bethany, IL. Larry was a member of the Shelbyville VFW Post #4829, Moose Lodge #1294 in Shelbyville, Jackson Masonic Lodge #53, and the American Legion.

Larry is survived by his wife, JoAnne; daughter, Linda Morrison and husband Carl of Simpson, IL; sons, Brent Mentz and wife Maren of Shelbyville, TN, and Mitchell Mentz and wife Mary Lynn of Danville, AR; seven grandchildren, Ross, Michael, Keith, Gracie, Cole, Ethan and Lauren; and 2 great grandchildren, Collins and Saylor-Ann.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Marjorie Kensil; brother, Lonnie Mentz; and granddaughter, Winnie Morrison.