Larry Edwin Tomb
December 2, 1955 - November 11, 2025
With profound sadness, we announce that Larry Edwin Tomb, 69, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Cremation rites will be accorded, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory – Geneseo Chapel will be assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Larry Tomb Memorial Fund, which will be distributed amongst his favorite local charities.
Larry was born on December 2, 1955, in Homer City, Pennsylvania, to his father, Bion Edwin Tomb, and his mother, Jean (Mowery) Tomb. His work ethic and determination began early, growing up in his family's business, Tomb Trucking, where he learned the value of hard work, integrity, and loyalty. Those early years shaped the career that would define him. On November 19, 1976, Larry married Lorrie Artim, and together they had a daughter, Patricia.
Larry went on to build an exceptional professional legacy in cut-to-length forestry equipment, starting with Rottne Industries. In 2007, he moved to Hillsdale, Illinois, to join John Deere, a company he admired and served with pride. Throughout his career, Larry became known as the person everyone called when something difficult needed to be solved. He had a gift for diagnosing problems, a relentless dedication to helping others, and a reputation for going above and beyond - not because he had to, but because he cared. Those who worked with him held the deepest respect for his knowledge, honesty, and unwavering commitment. He made lifelong friends along the way.
Beyond work, Larry was a craftsman at heart. Woodworking was his joy and his language of love. He poured his heart into every project - often making handmade gifts that are now treasured reminders of his generosity and thoughtfulness. He also had a soft spot for his boxers, who were never just pets, but family.
Above all, Larry's greatest pride and deepest love was his family. He leaves behind his wife, Lorrie, his daughter, Patricia, and two grandchildren he adored more than anything, Abby and Grayson. Being a grandfather was one of his greatest joys; his face lit up at the sound of their laughter.
Larry's life was defined not by accolades, but by the way he treated others - with humility, kindness, and quiet strength. He showed up. He worked hard. He loved his family fiercely.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Bion and Jean Tomb; brother, Roy Tomb; and sister, Darleen Weimer.

Published by The Rock Island Dispatch Argus from Nov. 14 to Nov. 15, 2025.