Larry VanZandt

Larry D. VanZandt, age 91, of Centralia, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, at Centralia Manor. Born in Centralia on November 22, 1934, to Roy and Ethel (Dodillet) VanZandt, he married Geraldine Eller on June 18, 1954. She preceded him in death on June 10, 2018.

Larry spent his working life in the transportation industry. He began as a welder and over-the-road driver, later worked for Gordon Transport Company, and in 1969 took over his father’s business, operating VanZandt Trucking Service until his retirement in 2000. A lifelong member of Centralia First United Methodist Church, he found great joy in the outdoors and in simple pleasures. He loved hunting, fishing, camping with friends, playing games, and traveling, but nothing meant more to him than time spent with his family.

He is survived by his son, Kevin VanZandt and wife Tina (Helpingstine) of Centralia; granddaughters, Kari Nierman and husband Allen of Highland, and Carly Thompson and husband Dallas of Fairview Heights; great-grandchildren, Levi, Jase, and Tanner Nierman of Highland, and Maeve Thompson of Fairview Heights; brother-in-law, Robert Eller and wife Jackie of Phoenix, Arizona; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Geraldine, his son Kirby VanZandt, his sister Judy Christian and her husband Cliff, and his brother-in-law Chet Eller.

Larry will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose quiet strength and love for his family left a lasting impression on all who knew him.