Obituary published on Legacy.com by Harrod Brothers Funeral Home & Crematory - Frankfort on Feb. 18, 2025.
Larry C. Van Hoose, 76, of
Frankfort, Kentucky, went to be with the Lord on February 14, 2025. He passed peacefully at home with his beloved wife, Vicki, by his side.
Seeing the end of his life is like seeing the horizon as the end of the ocean.
Born in Prestonsburg, Kentucky, on October 24, 1948, Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Ruby Billiter Harp and Edmond (Teddy) Van Hoose; his brother, Dewey Van Hoose; his grandson, Nicholas Likens; and his beloved Aunt Ern and Uncle Charlie Jacobs, who raised him as their own.
He is survived by his loving wife, Vicki Smith Van Hoose; his children, Shane Searcy (Lindsey), Shannon Stricklin (Andy), Paul Van Hoose (Amanda), and Edward Taylor Van Hoose (Kelly); his brother, Ed Van Hoose (Holly); ten grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and was eagerly anticipating the birth of twin great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind four very special nieces and nephews, along with his "brother by another mother," Lanny Dean.
Larry's life was defined by his deep faith and joy in Christ. He dearly loved his church and church family, serving as a Sunday School teacher for many years. He also found great joy in singing in the choir-though he was often lovingly told to sing a little more quietly.
Larry played softball for most of his adult life, forming lifelong friendships along the way. He also enjoyed playing volleyball, fishing, and watching the many birds in his backyard. A skilled pool player, he often joked that his talent came from a "misspent youth."
Later in life, Larry discovered his passion for riding Harley-Davidson motorcycles. He loved the freedom, the wind, the smells, the scenery, and, most of all, the camaraderie of his close friends and those he made along the way. In 2017, he and three of his closest friends made a month-long motorcycle trip to California, which he called "the trip of a lifetime." This was in addition to countless trips to Sturgis, South Dakota, Florida, and beyond. His greatest joy was riding with his dearest and closest friends-the "Monday Night Crew."
Larry also had a deep love for the land and farming, raising many a tobacco crop with his uncle Charlie and his father-in-law and dearest friend, Buddy Smith.
He had a remarkable ability to make friends, never meeting a stranger. His big-hearted smile reflected his passion for life, and his strong values of honesty and integrity were evident in the way he always made time for others-whether to lend an ear, a shoulder, or a helping hand.
Above all, Larry loved his Lord, his family, and his many cherished friends. He was an eternal optimist who instilled in his children and grandchildren the importance of living a life of service, love, gratitude, and forgiveness. He shared an especially close bond with his grandson, Karson, and took great pleasure in teaching him life lessons-especially how to drive.
Larry always believed in embracing life's joys and sharing them with others. His family asks that you do the same-find something that brings you great, heartfelt joy and share it with those around you. His legacy will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Services will be held at Alton Christian Church, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. with funeral services at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 20, 2025 with Pastor Noal Cotton officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alton Christian Church (1686 Old Frankfort Rd., Lawrenceburg, KY 40342) or to a
charity of your choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of Harrod Brothers Funeral Home and Crematory.