Lawrence William Wetendorf, an Army veteran of the Vietnam War and a 49-year resident of Des Plaines, passed away December 28, 2025 at 76 years of age. He is survived by his son Keith (Stephanie), daughter-in-law Marie, granddaughter Lydia, and grandsons Lawson, Jaxson, and Alex. Also surviving are sisters Margaret Sponaugle, Marcia (Glen) Petersen and brothers Mark (Sue), Jeff (the late Sandy), Bill (Paulette) and Mitch (Jaime). Larry will be missed by many others including extended family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors. His smile, always so welcoming, could be seen across the room wherever he was. Larry loved a good cup of coffee with the newspaper, watching Chicago sports, sitting on the porch with friends and family (with a cold one), and spending time with his granddog Lucky. Of all the roles he had in life, though, he was most proud to be a grandparent. Whether it was a sporting event, a music performance, or an awards ceremony, he always showed up for his grandkids.

Larry is preceded in death by his son Gavin, parents William and Helen, brother Richard, and sisters Denise Straub and Eileen Clevenger.

A celebration of life honoring Larry will be held Sunday, January 11th from 12pm-3pm at Club Casa 353 N. River Road, Des Plaines. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Amyloidosis Foundation 7151 N Main St. Ste. 2 Clarkston, MI ( www.amyloidosis.org ). Funeral care provided by G.L. Hills Funeral Home and Cremation Center. For information, please call 847-699-9003 or visit www.glhillsfuneralhome.com .