Larry Walz

TAMA-Larry Dale Walz, 78, of Tama, passed away Friday, October 25, 2024, at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City. Funeral Services will be held Friday, November 1, 2024, at 10:30 AM at Living Faith United Methodist Church in Tama with Pastor Clint Anderson officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Tama. Visitation will be held Thursday, October 31, 2024, from 4-7 PM at Kruse-Phillips Funeral Home in Tama.

Larry was born on May 28th, 1946, to Dale and Lucille (Brandt) Walz. He attended country school Star #7 through 4th grade and then went to Tama elementary school and graduated from South Tama High School in the Class of 1964.

Larry married the love of his life, Barbara Griffith of Malcom, on February 19th, 1967. To this union, three children were born: Tim, Tammy, and Tiffany. Larry was the proud grandfather to ten grandchildren and was devoted to attending all their various activities. Larry was anxiously awaiting the birth of his first great-grandchild in February.

Larry farmed the family farm with his dad and brother, and more recently with his son. He loved farm equipment and collecting toy tractors. He worked at the Tama Livestock Auction Barn for over fifty years, enjoying all the friends that came through. Larry was a member of Living Faith United Methodist Church. He enjoyed going to flea markets, the casino, concerts, and volunteering at the Wieting Theater concession stand.

Larry was a family man who loved supporting his children and grandchildren always. Many vacations were taken together, and many card games were played. He enjoyed the outdoors and giving John Deere Gator rides to anyone that would go with him. Larry always had a smile for everyone, was a friend to all, and gave a great hug. He was the most generous, kind, caring man.

Larry is survived by his wife, Barbara; children, Tim (Candi) Walz, Tammy (Steve) Chyma, and Tiffany (Jerrod) Bridgewater; ten grandchildren, Tyler Walz, Trisha (Caleb) Hanson, Bailey (Mariah) Chyma, Kaylee Chyma, Tanner Walz, Alyssa Chyma, Gavin Bridgewater, Abigail Chyma, Emerson Bridgewater, and Idella Bridgewater; a sister-in-law; two nieces; three great-nieces; two great-nephews; a step-sister, Cherie Schafer; and many cousins.

In death he rejoins his parents; stepfather, Rex Cobet; and brother, Gary Walz.

Memorials may be directed to Living Faith United Methodist Church in Tama.