Lawrence Earl Kocon

Lawrence (Larry) Earl Kocon of Cadiz, Kentucky, (formerly of Powell, Ohio) was called home 2 days prior to his 79th birthday, on Wednesday, June 1, 2022. After several months of declining health while battling lymphoma, Larry passed away peacefully at Anna Mae Owen Hospice House in Murray, KY, with his beloved wife, Diane, by his side.

Larry was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on June 3, 1943. He attended St. Mary’s High School in Bismarck, ND, followed by a successful collegiate career at Iowa State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Management and being an active member of ATO fraternity.  

Larry went to work at International Harvester in Fort Wayne, IN, later being drafted into the US Army.  After proudly serving his country in Vietnam.  he returned home to Fort Wayne and his work at International Harvester, where he met the love of his life, Diane (Altekruse) while both were employed there.

Larry and Diane soon relocated to Columbus, Ohio, where they planted roots to raise their family.  In Columbus, Larry worked for Dana Corporation, and Diane worked for Olentangy Local Schools.  It was there that they raised their children, daughter Tracy Nicole (Martz), and stepson Brent Elliot Baker.

Upon retirement, Larry and Diane discovered the place that would end up being their home, and their “Happy Place”.  Surrounded by newfound friends, Larry and Diane settled on the shores of Lake Barkley in Cadiz, Kentucky.  Larry spent his time in retirement doing all the things he loved including enjoying a “cold one” and/or a cigar with his friends, watching college football on the porch, boating, jet-skiing, Kubota riding, playing golf, and of course the numerous hours watching the “ticker show” to keep tabs on his stocks!

Anyone who knew Larry, would have described him with words like “fighter”, “invincible”, and “a medical miracle”.  Larry’s drive to never give up showed in all his life’s efforts, and later in life, showed in his courageous battles with Guillain-Barre Syndrome, as well as multiple successful bouts with various types of cancers.  Larry fought and won these battles time and time again and continued to amaze his friends and family with his resilience each time.

Larry is survived by his wife, Diane; daughter, Tracy (Patrick McGrath); and stepson, Brent (Brandie) Baker.  Also surviving Larry are his sister, Carole (Larry) Zerwas; grandchildren, Camryn, Ireland, Hunter, and Dawson, along with numerous nieces and nephews.  Larry was preceded in death by his father Walter and mother Marjorie. 

Please join Larry’s family for a “Celebration of Life” at 11:00 am on Saturday, June 11, 2022, Divine Mercy Funeral Home, 3500 Lake Avenue Fort Wayne, with calling one hour prior.