Lawrence "Larry" Eichert was united with his Omnipotent Lord on May 28, 2024, to receive the worldly answers he sought throughout his lifetime. Born in September of 1940 to Philip and Anna Eichert in Philadelphia, PA, Larry's life was defined by his love for the Lord and passion for teaching God's children.
For more than eight decades, Larry exhibited a thirst for knowledge and a commitment to the wonder of knowing. He received his BS and MA from Concordia University in River Forest, Illinois; NEST Certification from MIT; UNESCO Certification in virtual learning, and numerous professional designations within elementary and secondary education. He was recognized by his peers for his innovative approach to teaching the arts and sciences, while simultaneously leading his athletic teams to championships.
For nearly 50 years, Larry enriched the lives of his pupils and student athletes beginning at St. Paul Lutheran Elementary School in Melrose Park, IL, before accepting a position at Valley Lutheran High School in St. Charles, IL, and taught evening methods courses at his Alma Mater. He was called to serve as Science Department Chair at Hong Kong International School (HKIS), after 17 years he retired and settled in Bradenton, FL. Throughout his career, Larry never lost sight of his goals to foster critical thinking in the classroom, connect the word of God with the wonders of the world, and integrate Christian principles within competitive athletics.
As an Eagle Scout, Larry was passionate about experiencing and exploring God's natural creations. Whether diving the Great Barrier Reef, photographing the beauty of Bali, enjoying an African safari, or interacting with the various cultures of Indigenous people around the world as a missionary, Larry lived life to its fullest.
Upon his return to the US, Larry continued his commitment to sustaining the environment by leading the landscape committee in his Florida community and producing a monthly scientific newsletter for its residents. He expanded his role as an elected official of the Community Development District (CDD) Board, committed to caring for the ponds and protected wetlands throughout the development.
A true Renaissance man, Larry's legacy is defined as an artist, coach, educator, explorer, steward of the environment, and devoted Lutheran servant. He will be remembered as a man of integrity, energy, vision, and service by his family, friends, and the many lives he touched over the course of his lifetime.
Larry is loved and cherished by many people, especially those closest to him. He is survived by his loving wife Carol, children Kimberly Eichert Walsh (Rob) and Erik Eichert (Halle'); grandchildren Hannah Walsh and Lindsey Walsh Miller (Mason), Mitchell (Rachel), Ean (Leslie), Asher, and Bennett Eichert, as well as extended family members Cheri Borchart (Mark), David Hanneman (Karen), and Brian Hanneman.
While life on earth is filled with questions, today we celebrate God's grace in the knowledge that Larry is now in heaven and has found the answers.
Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend a memorial service for Larry, which will be held at New Life Lutheran Church, 8010 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL; on Friday, June 7, 2024, at 2:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to:
New Life Lutheran Church Boy Scouts Program
8010 Fruitville Road
Sarasota, Florida 34240
or
Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park for the Manatee Program
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Please specify in memory of Larry Eichert in the memorial section of the portal
May the Lord go with you. May He go behind you to encourage you, beside you to befriend you, above you to watch over you, beneath you to lift you from your sorrows, within you to give you the gifts of faith, hope and love and always before you to show the way.
