Larry Edward Bartholomew, a cherished pillar of the Keosauqua community, passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at the Van Buren County Hospital. Born on June 24, 1937, in Bentonsport, Iowa, to Fuller Earl and Marie Caroline (Arnold) Bartholomew, Larry lived a life characterized by devotion to his family, a passion for community service, and an array of interests that brought joy to many.
Larry was a proud graduate of Keosauqua High School, class of 1955. His heart found its match in Diane Wichhart, and they were united in marriage on May 14, 1958. Their loving partnership spanned 65 years and was blessed with five children: Debra Troutman (Bob) of Keosauqua, Rhonda Niederhuth (Scott) of Stockport, Tamara Keller (Mike) of Keosauqua, Doug Bartholomew (Brenda) of Keosauqua, and Matt Bartholomew (Tina) of Keosauqua. Larry was a doting grandfather to ten grandchildren, Corby Troutman (Kari), Ryan Troutman (Randi), Meghan Snyder (Seth), Jill Tedrow (Rodney), Hannah Losey (Nathan), Zach Keller (Paige), Spencer Bartholomew (Brianne), Mitchell Bartholomew, Paige Novak and Jesse Davis (Kelsie) and twenty great-grandchildren, who filled his life with laughter and love. Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Fuller and Marie, his sister, Margaret Linn, and his son, Matt Bartholomew.
Larry dedicated his time and talents to the community, serving as president of the Riverview Country Club, a member of the Keosauqua Fire Department, and an ambulance driver for Catcott Funeral Home. His professional life was diverse, including roles at Archies, Catcott and Pedrick Funeral Homes, driving a school bus for the Van Buren Community School, clerking sales for Howard Buckles and Herb Green, and working at local hardware stores Pedrick and Thorne Ace Hardware and Wasko Hardware. Alongside his father and sons, he also raised cattle and hogs.
Larry’s zest for life was evident in his numerous hobbies. A true sportsman, he enjoyed trap shooting, mushroom hunting, golfing, bowling, and hunting for deer and pheasant. Fishing trips and casino outings with Diane were among his favorite pastimes. However, it was his unwavering support for his children’s and grandchildren’s activities that stood out the most. Larry’s presence at countless games, performances, and events underscored his greatest love: his family.
His life’s journey was marked by a love for travel, having explored all 48 states, each adventure adding to a tapestry of cherished memories. Larry’s legacy is one of a life well-lived, filled with the simple pleasures of time spent with loved ones and the satisfaction of contributing meaningfully to his community.
A visitation for Larry will be held on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, starting at 2:00PM at Cranston-Pedrick Funeral Home in Keosauqua, with the family present to receive friends and loved ones from 5:00PM to 7:00 PM. A funeral service celebrating Larry’s life will take place at the same location on Thursday, May 2, 2024, with Pastor Mary Kathryn Hart and Larry Shipley officiating. Burial will immediately follow the service at Center Chapel Cemetery. Gifts to a memorial to be designated later by the family may be left at the funeral home or mailed to the family at 22577 Maple Avenue, Keosauqua, IA 52565.
Larry’s life story is one of enduring love, steadfast commitment to his community, and the pursuit of happiness through simple pleasures. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. Friends and family are invited to leave online condolences and share memories of Larry at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.
