Larry C. Kochheiser

Larry C. Kochheiser, 85, passed away peacefully at home after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of his family. A man known for his steady work ethic, quiet kindness, and unwavering integrity, Larry lived a life marked by dedication to his faith, his family, and his community.

He was born April 17, 1940, to Jack Carlton and Ruth (Strome) Kochheiser. Larry attended Bellville School for grades one through six and went on to graduate from Union High School in Weller Township in 1958. Eager to build a career, he furthered his education through banking schools in Oklahoma, Boston, and New York City, laying the groundwork for what would become a remarkable 44-year career in banking.

Larry began his banking journey as a teller at First National Bank in Shiloh, working his way through various departments with diligence and integrity. He concluded his career in 2003 as Vice President of KeyBank in Mansfield. Larry truly enjoyed helping his clients navigate their financial needs and took pride in building lasting relationships grounded in trust. His first job out of high school was at Dunkin Jewelers, and he continued working there part-time for many years—a role that brought him great joy and connected him with countless friends and customers.

On November 22, 2002, Larry married Susan Price, sharing years of love, companionship, and adventure together. Susan introduced Larry to rescuing dogs, and soon it became a passion for both of them. Together they fostered and adopted many beloved dogs over the years, and they began their own non profit Friends of Richland County Dogs.

A faithful member of Berean Baptist Church, Larry lived his faith quietly but faithfully. He was also a proud member of the Iron Will Tractor Club, Sons of the American Legion, and Gold Wing Motorcycle Chapter B. Whether restoring one of his ten meticulously cared-for John Deere tractors or riding his Gold Wing motorcycle on extended trips with friends, Larry found fulfillment in hands-on work and the open road.

Growing up on a farm where his family raised cattle, pigs, sheep, and chickens, Larry remained closely tied to his agricultural roots, a love he shared with his daughters, convincing grandma and grandpa to keep a pony for the family—much to their delight. His love of machinery and the land stayed with him throughout his life.
In addition to his many hobbies, Larry earned his private pilot’s license and enjoyed spontaneous day trips, including flying to Bluffton to take his daughter to lunch while she was in college, and other excursions to Chicago and nearby cities. During retirement, he and Susan enjoyed spending winters in Arizona, embracing both relaxation and new adventures.

Larry will be remembered as a hardworking, unassuming, and kind man whose steady presence made a lasting impact on those around him. His legacy of integrity, generosity, and quiet strength will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 23 years, Susan Kochheiser, two daughters Dr. Karen Kochheiser, Kimberly Hale RN (Terry), their mother Marjorie Kochheiser, grandchildren Cody Hughes (Kali), Jessica Adams (Kyle), Makayla Kochheiser (Mike), Austin Kochheiser (Sarah), Joshua Hughes (Crystal); great grandchildren Ellie, Clint, Cole, Ava and Kaden; brother Jack Kochheiser (Penny), brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Terri Kochheiser, Marla Kochheiser, A.V. Price (Dalis), and Sally Young, his loyal friend Maggie, along with many nieces and nephews and extended family.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers Donald and James Kochheiser, and a brother-in-law Bob Young, and many 4-legged family members.

Friends may call Thursday, March 5, 2026 from 4 pm to 7 pm in the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home where the funeral service will be held Friday, at 11 am. Pastors Craig Hamm and Jim Berry will officiate. Burial will follow in Bellville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Berean Men’s Bible Study or Friends of the Richland County Dogs.

To leave a message for the family or preview Larry’s tribute video, please visit snyderfuneralhomes.com

Funeral Home: Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home

Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com