Larry Schwaegel

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Larry Schwaegel, 80, of Freeburg, IL, died on Thursday, August 19, 2021, in his home surrounded by family.

Larry was a hard worker who took pride in supporting his family.  He was an agriculture and livestock farmer and a member of the Laborers’ International Union. To some he was known as the “junk man” where he collected and recycled old appliances and other metals.  He was a man who never met any strangers and would carry on a conversation for hours.  He loved telling corny jokes to make people laugh and showed his love by giving people a hard time.  He was someone who loved the simple things in life: like taking a Sunday drive, sitting quietly in a comfortable chair under the pecan tree or listening to a rainstorm on his deck.  He was a man of many words and always had advice to give on how to complete a project, whether it was solicited or not.  He will be remembered for his contagious smile, laugh of joy and kind heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Erma, nee Ohlendorf, Schwaegel; and his daughter, Debbie.

Surviving are his wife of 58 years, Margaret Schwaegel;
four children; Kevin, Sandy (Schmidt) and husband Craig, Todd and wife Debbie, and Kim (Esker) and husband Doug;
a sister, Gerry (Wiegand) and husband Lee.
He was also loved by his 9 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.

In lieu of gifts and flowers we are asking that memorials be made to the following organizations, HSHS Hospice (https://www.hshs.org/HSHS/Giving) and the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (Make a Donation | Parkinson’s Disease (michaeljfox.org)). Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.

There will be no funeral or memorial services for Larry at this time.  His family will celebrate his eternal life by spreading his ashes on the farm, where he spent many hours working hard and enjoying the countryside.

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11 Comments on Larry Schwaegel

Allen & Dora Garland said : Guest Report Aug 30, 2021 at 9:27 AM

Margaret, and family; we are so sorry to hear of Larry's passing. The obit was a loving memorial to "one of the good guys". We remember the days we were....

  • Smithton
  • IL
Rachel Hahn said : Guest Report Aug 25, 2021 at 8:25 PM

Margaret and family please accept my condolences. I enjoyed talking to Larry on the Grandpad. His jokes always made me smile. He always begged me to bring him McDonald's, but never tell anyone. He will truly be missed.

  • Freeburg
  • Illinois
Wayne & Christie Scher said : Guest Report Aug 25, 2021 at 8:05 AM

Our deepest sympathy go escout to you Margaret Ann & family . Prayers to all of you . Wayne & Christie Scher

  • Belleville
  • Il
Deacon Corby Valentine said : Guest Report Aug 23, 2021 at 7:48 PM

Margaret and Family, On behalf of the St. Joseph Parish family, please accept or sincere condolences on the passing of Larry. May he rest in the arms of our Lord.

  • Freeburg
  • ILL.
Mark & kim forcade said : Guest Report Aug 22, 2021 at 5:01 PM

To the Schwaegel families. We were very sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. He was fun to talk with and work with over the past years. He will be missed. Please except our sympathy and prayers. Sincerely,

  • Smithton
  • Il
Floyd and Judi Voyles said : Guest Report Aug 22, 2021 at 2:24 PM

Our deepest condolences to our dear friend, Margaret Schwaegel and the Schwaegel family. God bless the family. Larry was a dear longtime friend that loved conversing with everyone and we enjoyed being with him. Larry, We will miss you immensely. May the Lord hold you in the palm of his hand. Love, Floyd and Judi

  • Belleville
  • Illinois
Floyd and Judi Voyles said : Guest Report Aug 22, 2021 at 9:58 AM

Our sincere and deepest sympathy to our dear friend, Margaret Schwaegel and the Schwaegel family. Larry was never at a loss for words and we always enjoyed his company. He was a longtime true friend and we will miss him immensely. May God hold him in the hallow of his hand. Love, Floyd and Judi

  • Belleville
  • Illinois
Dennis Dahm said : Guest Report Aug 22, 2021 at 7:18 AM

We’re sorry to read about the passing of Larry. He and Margaret were great neighbors of my Mom and Roger. May he rest in peace

  • New Baden
  • IL
julie mccarter said : Guest Report Aug 21, 2021 at 5:26 PM

I was saddened to hear of your families loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

  • belleville
  • IL
Bob Trentman said : Guest Report Aug 21, 2021 at 1:44 PM

Larry was a great friend who help look after me when I was younger . I will miss him .

  • Belleville
  • Illinois
Amy Webb said : Guest Report Aug 21, 2021 at 11:37 AM

To the entire Schwaege family you all have my deepest sympathies. Larry was a great man and I have many childhood memories at the farm. Much love and hugs to you all!!!

  • Smithton
  • Il

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