Larry Lee Auten, 65, of Tuscola, IL, formerly of Hammond, IL, passed away at 9:01 pm, Saturday, December 18, 2010 at his home surrounded by his loving family.


Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 pm, on Tuesday, December 21, 2010 at the Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home, 66 East US Highway 36, Atwood, IL.


Larry was born on November 12, 1945 in Tuscola, IL, the son of Vernon Earl and Alberta Bernice Sapp Auten.


Surviving are his daughters: Peg Raney and husband Todd of Tuscola , Dawn Pellum and husband Ed of Rantoul, 9 grandchildren, ex-wife Joyce Berg, and a very special woman Toemika Garrett of Atwood that he adored as if she were his daughter.

"Bubba" as he was lovingly named several years ago by his daughter Peg, found great joy being home with his family in his last days. He had a special bond and was very proud of the accomplishments of his grandson Anthony and granddaughter Breanna, whom he nicknamed "Beautiful." His namesake Liam and grandson Harrison, whom he named, had the pleasure of getting to truly know him in his last year of life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Teresa Joyce "TJ" Auten, a grandson, and sister Donna Badger.


In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the American Red Cross or ASPCA.


Larry retired from Firestone in Decatur, IL, where he had worked over 30 years. He was a longtime member of the Tuscola Moose Lodge. Larry enjoyed playing cards, shooting pool and socializing with his many friends. He will be greatly missed.

Larry served in the US Air Force during the Vietnam War.

Online condolences to the family may be sent to hilligossshraderfh.com