Larry Lee Grothe

Larry Lee Grothe, 86, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, passed away on October 7, 2026. Born on May 15, 1940, in Rosston, Oklahoma, Larry lived a life defined by hard work, creativity, service, and an unwavering devotion to his family.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Irvin Ray Grothe and Ruth Elizabeth “Dolly” Grothe. He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Becky Grothe; his son, Clark Grothe; his three cherished granddaughters, Brianne Grothe (Logan), Laureli Simpson (Gabriel), and Sheridan Grothe (Reese), affectionately known as his “sweetpeas.” He is also survived by his brother and closest friend, Dennis Grothe (Dixie); and his younger sister, Jana Allison (Bill).

Larry served in the Air National Guard from 1962 through 1968, honorably completing his service at the rank of Technical Sergeant. He went on to build a distinguished career in advertising, spending 31 years with The Daily Oklahoman. His professional life also included working at the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association, the Grand Lake Association, and the Miami News-Record.

A member of First Baptist Church of Bethany since 1967, Larry demonstrated his faith through years of practical and quiet service. He served on the Property and Space Committee, mowed church grounds, completed maintenance and remodeling projects, delivered Mobile Meals, and shared his musical talents with local senior centers as a member of the “Just Because” musical group.

Retirement did not slow Larry down. Instead, it opened the door to a new creative chapter as he immersed himself in the art of woodturning. He crafted beautiful wooden bowls that were displayed in galleries and art shows throughout Oklahoma and neighboring states. His artistic gifts extended also to guitar playing, photography, and jewelry making. Larry was rarely content to sit still when there was something to build, create, improve, or fix. He loved camping, motorcycle riding, and homemade ice cream.

Larry’s work ethic was unmatched, and his favorite expressions captured the spirit by which he lived. “Bow your neck and get after it” and “no step for a stepper” were more than sayings; they were a philosophy. When his son lingered too long in bed in the morning, Larry’s familiar encouragement was, “You’re burning daylight.” Larry faced life's challenges head-on, putting in the work, and finding a way forward.

His family never saw him encounter a challenge he did not handle. Whenever a problem arose, Larry’s wisdom, knowledge, and relentless perseverance would lead to a solution. These qualities brought his family deep comfort and confidence.

The experiences of Larry’s younger years shaped him as a practical and protective husband and father. A blessing of his later years was seeing the tenderness beneath that strength. Over the last three decades of his life, his three granddaughters brought out his gentle, affectionate, and emotionally connected self. His granddaughters held a special place in his heart, and the love they shared revealed his true nature.

Larry's legacy is evidenced in the family he loved, his acts of service, and the example he set. He demonstrated to those around him the value of hard work, perseverance, resourcefulness, and steadfastness. He demonstrated God's love through his actions.

“Our love should not be just words and talk; it must be true love, which shows itself in action.” (1 John 3:18)

In lieu of flowers, please complete one act of random kindness to bring joy, support, or relief to another person.

A memorial service celebrating Larry’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on October 13, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Bethany in Bethany, Oklahoma.