Larry Herbert Ladendorf

Larry was born on August 13, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, to Raymond and Caroline Ladendorf. He graduated from Maine West High School in Des Plaines, Illinois, before earning a degree in engineering from Bradley University. Larry spent his entire career working for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). He loved aviation but loved working with his colleagues more. After a distinguished career, Larry retired from the FAA in 2006.

Larry met the love of his life Jeanette (Jan) thanks to a chance encounter at a pizza parlor. In 1967, the two of them were married at Queen of All Saints Basilica in Chicago. They began their life together in Lansing, Michigan, where their daughter Jill was born followed a couple years later by the birth of their son Jeff. The family moved back to the Chicagoland area and made their home in Mt. Prospect, where Larry and Jan have lived ever since.

Larry had a laugh that filled the room (and he filled it often). He was genuine, unassuming, empathetic, and kind; he accepted people for who they are; and as a result, he made friends wherever he went. He was always there for his family and friends, lending a hand without being asked. In addition to spending time with his family and friends, Larry loved horseback riding and being at the barn; camping and the outdoors; fixing things; stops for ice cream, especially if they involved his grandchildren; being a dad (at every age); and going to the movies and dinners out with Jan.

Larry is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jeanette; daughter Jill Ladendorf and her husband Jeff Pilgrim of Chicago, Illinois; son Jeff Ladendorf and his wife Jennifer Hindel of Frankfort, Illinois; grandchildren Samantha Pilgrim, Graham Ladendorf, and May Ladendorf; and his dog Chole, his horse Layla, and his bird Coco. He will be laid to rest during a private ceremony on March 3, 2025.