Lawrence Vanderhorst III, 77, of Wheeling, Illinois, passed away on July 29th, 2026. He is survived by his wife, Patricia (Patty) Vanderhorst (née Bekielewski) and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence Vanderhorst, Jr. and Shirley (née Glugla) Vanderhorst.
Born in Chicago, Illinois on July 3rd, 1949, Larry went on to serve as a marksman in the US Army, earning the National Defense Service Medal. After his honorable discharge from the Army, Lawrence began a career as an electrician for the CTA, where he worked until his retirement in 2005. Lawrence, an avid bowler, first met his wife Patty after the pair were introduced by the owner of Bel Bowl in Chicago. The couple continued to enjoy bowling together throughout their forty-five years of marriage.
Larry also enjoyed golfing and travelling. He loved Alaska and Mexico, and although he disliked sand, he reluctantly explored beaches in Florida. He had a dry, witty sense of humor and often answered the question “how are you?” with his signature reply, “just ducky.” He was quiet, preferring to stay out of the spotlight—unless, of course, he was spending a Friday night singing Frank Sinatra songs at karaoke with his nieces and nephews. Larry will be missed by all whose lives he touched.
A Memorial Visitation for Larry will be held Friday, August 7, 2026, from 9am until 12pm with A Celebration of Life Service beginning at 11am at Oehler Funeral Home, 2099 Miner St., Des Plaines, IL. Continental breakfast to be served during hours of visitation. Interment private. For more information, please call (847) 824-5155.
