Obituary published on Legacy.com by Freeman Mortuary - Jefferson City on Oct. 1, 2025.
Larry Allen Steinmetz, age 70, of Jefferson City, passed away Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at home surrounded by his loving family.
Larry was born February 11, 1955, in Great Falls, Mt., the son of Bob L. and Betty L. (Loveall) Steinmetz. He was married on June 30, 1984, in Poplar Bluff, Mo., to Donna G. Cox, who survives.
Larry grew up in central Missouri and was a 1973 graduate of Jefferson City High School. As a kid, he loved playing softball with his friends and cherished the time spent with his siblings and family, especially learning how to hunt and fish with his grandfathers and father. His best friend throughout life was his brother, Mike, with whom he shared countless memories and an unbreakable bond.
Larry began his career with the Laborers Local 662, where he worked as a concrete foreman and was proud to contribute to major projects, including the construction of the cooling tower at the Callaway County Nuclear Plant.
In 1984, he joined his parents in the family business, Steinmetz Automotive, working side by side with them. By 2005, Larry and his siblings became owners of the business, where he continued as president and operator and dedicated himself each day. Known for his huge heart, Larry always made it a priority to take care of others. He treated his employees like family, and in return, many remained with the shop for decades, a testament to the loyalty and respect he inspired.
He had a deep love for the outdoors, but fishing was his true passion. Larry spent years chasing fish across Lake of the Ozarks, Mark Twain Lake, Montauk, Warsaw, the Missouri River, deep sea fishing in Florida and even trips to Canada with friends and his son. He didn't need much, just a good spot and the right bait. Larry even made and sold his own lures, always working to get them just right. Every year, he'd host a big fish fry for his automotive team and clients, a tradition they all looked forward to and appreciated. Fishing wasn't just a hobby for him, it was something he truly loved, and he enjoyed sharing it with the people around him.
Larry treasured his role as a husband, father, and grandfather above all else. While he enjoyed time at the shop with his team and found peace in the outdoors, his greatest passion was simply being with his family. He and Donna shared many memories together on their annual trips to Las Vegas, but what he cherished most were the quiet moments at home, surrounded by loved ones, with a St. Louis Cardinals game playing in the background.
Larry will be remembered for his big heart, his steadfast loyalty, and his love of family and friends. Though he will be deeply missed, the values he lived by will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know him.
He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Donna Steinmetz; son, Scott Steinmetz (Heather) of Jefferson City; two siblings, Gary Steinmetz (Margie), and Cherie Wallace, both of Jefferson City; two grandchildren, Henry and Harrison Steinmetz; and his beloved nephews.
Larry is preceded in death by his daughter Jessica Steinmetz; parents, Betty and Bob Steinmetz; and his brother, Michael Steinmetz.
Visitation will be held at Freeman Mortuary from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Monday, September 15, 2025.
A celebration of Larry's life will be conducted at 6:00 p.m. Monday, September 15, 2025, in the Freeman Chapel with the Reverend Mike Quinn officiating. An additional informal visitation will be held following his service.
A webcast of Larry's service will begin at 6:00 p.m. Monday for friends that are not able to attend by going to this memorial page and clicking the watch now button.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation, P.O. Box 366,
Jefferson City, Mo., 65102.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary, 915 Madison St,
Jefferson City, MO 65101.
To send flowers to the family of Larry Steinmetz, please visit our floral store.