Larry Gaerte

Larry D. Gaerte, of Chapman Lake, passed away on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Paddock Springs in Warsaw, at the age of 80. Born on November 9, 1945, in Wolf Lake, he was the son of Grover and Beulah Gaerte (Huffman).

Larry’s early years laid the foundation for a life devoted to hard work. He graduated from Larwill High School in 1964. He married Shirley Walker on October 11, 1963, at Etna United Methodist Church.

Larry devoted 42 years of faithful service as a re-toucher at R.R. Donnelley's. In his long career, he became known not only for his expertise but also for his mentorship and willingness to support colleagues and friends. His care for others extended far beyond the workplace.

An avid supporter of local and national sports, Larry’s enthusiasm for IU basketball was well known. He also was a fan of Notre Dame basketball. Whether rebounding basketballs for his children and grandchildren or cheering from the stands, Larry was always present. He was a founding member of the Warsaw Adult Tiger Booster Club. He was also a volunteer fireman for Winona Lake Fire Department for many years.

Larry’s commitment to service was evident through his volunteer work with organizations like Beaman Home and Mobile Meals. He found fulfillment in lending a hand and brightening the lives of others. Larry found joy in spending time outdoors, whether that be on the lake or at the beach. Family and friends alike remember Larry as a good mentor, whose guidance, patience, and wisdom touched many.

He is survived by his wife Shirley Gaerte of Warsaw; daughter Heather (Louis) Desenberg of Warsaw, and grandchildren Page (Jared) Desenberg-Wojcik of Valparaiso and Lex Desenberg of Warsaw. He is preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey Gaerte, who passed in 2018. 

A Life Celebration Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at Titus Funeral Home, 2000 Sheridan Street, Warsaw, IN 46580. The funeral service and interment will be privately attended in Warsaw’s Oakwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Joe’s Kids,1692 W Lake St. Warsaw, IN 46580 or to CASA of Kosciusko County121 N Lake St, Warsaw, IN 46580.