Larry Slater

Larry Donald Slater, 81, Rockford, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, in his home with his family by his side. He was born in Dubuque, IA on February 21, 1943, the son of Donald and Irma (Darnauer) Slater. Larry was a graduate of Dana college in Blair, NE, the class of 1965, and entered the Air Force where he served from 1965 to 1969. He then married Peggy Holtzman in Auburn, NE on October 4, 1969. Larry was a Purchasing Manager at Illinois Water Treatment and most recently at Mc Farland Office Supply until his retirement in 1993. He then fulfilled his lifelong dream and opened Slater’s Tavern in Stockton and operated it for many years. Larry was a longtime member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church and was a member of The American Legion Post #181 in Durand. 

Survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Peggy; his daughters, Heather (Christopher) Hardwick of Roscoe and Rebecca “Becca” Slater of Seattle, WA; his grandchildren, William “Daisy” Hardwick and Katherine “Katie” Hardwick; his sister, Marilyn Aldi of Frederick, MD. Predeceased by his parents and his brother-in-law, Robert Aryres.

Private family interment will take place later. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 3300 Rural St., Rockford, IL 61107 in Larrry’s name. Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory assisted the family. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.