Larry J. Strawser

Larry J. Strawser obituary, Port Royal, PA

Larry J. Strawser

Larry Strawser Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Guss Funeral Home, Inc. on Dec. 18, 2025.
Larry James "Spider" Strawser, 84, of Port Royal, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, in Lewistown.

Born on May 2, 1941, in Licking Creek Valley, Mifflintown, Larry was the son of the late Lester S. and A. Erma (Barger) Strawser. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Joan Fulkroad and one granddaughter, Morgan Renee Bretz.

Larry is survived by his wife, Debra (Walters) Strawser of Port Royal, his daughter, Melissa Bretz and her husband, John, of Port Royal, his son, Terry Strawser of Milroy, two stepdaughters, Rachel Burchfield and fiancé, Tyler Lynch, of Lewistown, and Kimberly Hockenberry and husband, Greg, of Port Royal, one brother, Clarence "Butch" Strawser of New Caney, Texas, four grandchildren, and three step-grandchildren.

Larry spent much of his life behind the wheel as a dedicated truck driver. Known across the airwaves by his handle "Spider," he became a familiar and respected voice among fellow drivers. His CB radio presence was matched only by his real-life warmth-those who met him rarely forgot his contagious smile and easygoing nature.

He also volunteered as a driver for the Port Royal Ambulance for many years.

Beyond the roadways, Larry had a deep love for animals, especially horses. His affection for them reflected his gentle spirit and appreciation for life's simple joys. Whether tending to animals or sharing stories from the road, he brought kindness and humor to every interaction.

A man remembered for both his hard work and heartfelt laughter, Larry leaves behind cherished memories that will continue to bring comfort to those who knew him.

May his memory be a source of peace and strength to all who loved him.

His funeral will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, at St. Stephen's Lutheran Church with Rev. Richard Adams officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery.

There will be a viewing one hour prior to the service Monday at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Stephen's Lutheran Church, 8489 Licking Creek Road, Mifflintown, PA 17059 or to Port Royal EMS, PO Box 265, Port Royal, PA 17082.

Guss Funeral Home, Inc. 20 S. Third St., Mifflintown is assisting the family.

Condolences may be made at www.gussfh.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Larry J. Strawser, please visit our floral store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Guss Funeral Home, Inc.

20 South Third Street, Mifflintown, PA 17059

Make a Donation
in Larry Strawser's name

How to support Larry's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Larry Strawser's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Larry Strawser's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?