Larry Gordon Applegate

Larry Gordon Applegate went into the arms of Jesus on May 29, 2025. Larry was born October 1, 1936, to Edward and Elsie Applegate. Larry attended Jackson School in Randolph County, graduating high school in 1954. Following High School graduation, he served his country for two years in the army. He was stationed in Europe for a good part of that time and was part of an army championship basketball team.

After returning from the Army, Larry met Linda Kochersperger from Rossburg, Ohio, and the two were married on August 11, 1961. Linda and Larry have two boys, Bruce and Ken.

Larry worked as a mechanic for Chevrolet garage for many years. He also did body work for a period. In 1970, Larry began working for the Randolph Eastern School Corporation as a bus driver, transportation supervisor and vocational auto-mechanics instructor. He served in this position for 30 years. He greatly enjoyed mentoring and teaching the students in the Bus Barn and developed lifelong relationships with his bus drivers, co-workers and administrators at UCCHS. Larry also enjoyed farming for more than 40 years, raising mostly beans and corn in Randolph County.

Larry was the epitome of a “Jack of All Trades.” From car body work, to welding, to carpentry, and much more, Larry taught himself most of these vocations. He could fix practically anything and made tools to work at things easier.

He also enjoyed his “play times” that included fishing, boating, waterskiing and traveling on his Gold Wing on many trips around the country. Larry taught many people how to waterski over the years. Larry and Linda took several cruises with many wonderful friends. For many years, the family made weekend trips to the Ohio River to a campground at Vevay, In. They also enjoyed several trips to Lake Cumberland over the years as well as Dale Hollow Lake and Norfolk Lake in Arkansas.

Larry loved his wife Linda with all his heart as they were married for more than 63 years. Sons, Bruce and Ken, are proud to be able to call him dad as he instilled many wonderful values in our lives.

Larry was a member of New Lisbon Christian Church for most of his life and had a personal relationship with his Lord. He served in various capacities over the years. He was also a Member of the Union City Lions Club for 20 years and a lifetime member of the VFW Post 7084 in Union City.

Larry is survived by his wife, Linda; sons, Bruce (Leanne) & Ken (Debbie); Sister, Janet McBride; Grandchildren: Tyler Applegate, Katie Braker (Eric), Jared Applegate (fiancé’ Allie), Chris Applegate (Brittany), Austin Applegate (Venessa), Olivia Johnson (Josh) and Anna Applegate. Great Grandchildren: Arowyn Applegate, Lennon Braker, Payne Applegate, Joelle Applegate, Elliana Applegate, Jessup Applegate, Bradley Applegate, Westen Applegate, Dean Applegate, Georgia Johnson, Grizzly Johnson and Edelweiss Johnson. In addition, great nieces and nephews, brothers and sisters-in-laws and many cousins.

Larry was proceeded in death by: Parents, Edward and Elsie Applegate; In-Laws, Floyd and Freeda Kochersperger; Brothers, Richard Applegate and Carol Applegate; Daughter in Law, Marti Applegate.

The family will receive visitors from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm on Monday June 2, 2025, at New Lisbon Christian Church 7996 E. 550 N. Union City, IN 47390.

Immediately following the time of visitation, a Funeral Service to celebrate Larry’s life will begin at 1:00 pm with Pastor Charles Armstrong and Bruce Applegate officiating.

Burial will take place at New Lisbon Cemetery with Military Graveside Services.

Memorial contributions may be made to New Lisbon Christian Church or Union City Lions Club.

Online Condolences may be expressed online at www.reichardfh.com.