ROCHELLE — Lawrence (Larry) Julius Tastad, 96, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2019. Larry was born to Lars and Josephine (Gittleson) Tastad in Lee County on the Gittleson family farm on Nov. 16, 1923.
Larry married Gladys Schnorr on Jan. 11, 1947. Theirs was a love story for the ages and an example of love and partnership for all to live by.
Larry is survived by his wife of 72 years, Gladys; three daughters, Linda Tastad of Lakewood, Colorado, Brenda Brown of Alpharetta, Georgia, and Donna Tastad of Rochelle; his wuffy tuffies, Josh (Jennifer) Brown of Richardson, Texas, Kelly (Daryl) Hannon of North Aurora, and Tracy Wilson of Rochelle; great-grandchildren, Sasha Caramella, Rylie and Hunter Hannon, Madison and Brady Jozefowicz, and great-great grandson, Noah Holman.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Vernon, and grandson-in-law, Daryl Hannon.
Larry devoted his life to agriculture working numerous jobs in the industry through farming, selling seed corn, fertilizer sales, and ag equipment mechanics. He owned and operated several grain elevators through the years. He devoted years of his life to his work with Maplehurst and Country Pleasure. Larry loved to work and held various jobs over the years to fill his Winter months.
Larry was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Rochelle for 73 years. He was chosen as Rochelle’s Community Leader in 1993 and supported his community endlessly.
Most importantly, Larry had an undying love for his family. He supported his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren without fail. He was the best story-teller and bunny drawer anyone would ever meet.
Few encountered Larry that did not have a story to tell. All who knew him loved him and he never had a negative word to say about anyone. Larry’s life was one of servitude. His humility, integrity, and faith will serve as an example for all who knew him. Well done, good and faithful servant.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 20 at the First Presbyterian Church, 1100 Calvin Road, Rochelle, with Pastor Doug Forsberg officiating. The visitation will be prior to the service from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the church.  
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be in Larry’s memory to the First Presbyterian Church.  
Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.