Lawrence J. "Larry" Hoelscher, 92 of Effingham, formerly of Sigel, passed away Saturday morning, January 18, 2014 at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, January 22, 2014 at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Sigel with burial in St. Michael Cemetery with military graveside rites. Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Tuesday evening at the church. Memorials may be made to the St. Michael's Parish Center /Gymnasium Pledge Drive. Bauer Funeral Home in Effingham will be assisting the family with arrangements. www.bauerfh.com

Larry was born December 31, 1921 in Effingham County, the son of Ben and Clara (Donsbach) Hoelscher. He married Mildred A. Hagen in 1947 and she preceded him in death in 1961. Larry served with the United States Army during WWII and Korean War and belonged to the Sigel American Legion Post #1134. He was also a member of St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Sigel.

Larry is survived by his two sons, Steve (Teri) of Neoga and Stan (Pam) of Mattoon; four daughters, Sharon (Mark) Hampton of Cartersville, GA, Shirley (Bill) Ballinger of Mattoon, Susie Monroe of Neoga and Sara (Jeff) Stepp of Neoga; brother, Ray (Pauline) of Mattoon; sister-in-law, Mary Hoelscher of Teutopolis; special friend, Eileen Doedtman of Effingham; 14 grandchildren, 5 step-grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren, 1 step-great-grandchild and two great-great grandchildren.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mildred; two brothers, Ed and Len Hoelscher and infant brother, Elmer; grandson, Alex.

We lost a true warrior and wonderful father. Dad embraced life unlike anyone we've ever known. His family and friends came first and he could always be counted on to donate his time to church and community. He held his family together when times were tough and in the end, we returned the favor. He was highly respected for his mechanical skills as the owner of Hoelscher's Repairzit and at General Electric. He fought the good fight and now it's time to go home! Rest in Peace Dad. It's time to go and be with Mom again! You've earned your time in heaven. We will miss you and you will be in our hearts forever.