Larry K. Riesen

Larry K. Riesen, 86, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away on January 4, 2026. He was born on April 25, 1939, in Celina, Ohio, son of the late Samuel Wesley and Elda May (Whitesell) Riesen. Larry was a valued member of the Waynedale United Methodist Church over the course of decades. He was also a member of the Riviera Owner's Association and the Historical Automobile Association for several years. He attended a multitude of car shows over his life, most notably with his beloved 1963 Buick Riviera. Larry owned a bicycle shop in the 1970s but most of his career was spent as a technician at Allen Dental Laboratory. Larry was an avid model car builder. He had a passion for painting, with an especial affinity to puffy paint in the 90's. He attended ceramics classes in that era as well, with snow babies being his most memorable specialty. He enjoyed traveling and took pride in mapping out his voyage. He found a great deal of his identity in doing yard work and was well known for his black walnut shelling hobby. He will be most missed for his ornery sense of humor. Larry is survived by his son, Keith Riesen; granddaughter, Heather (Anthony) Follis; great-grandchildren, Paxton and Paisley Follis. He is also preceded in passing by his wife, Deanna Riesen. A funeral service will be held at 3:00 pm on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Elzey-Patterson-Rodak Home for Funerals, at 6810 Old Trail Road, Fort Wayne, Indiana, 46809, with visitation beginning at 12:00 pm. Donations in memory of Larry may be made to Alzheimer's & Dementia Services of Northern Indiana.