Lawrence A. “Larry” Wojtas, 80, died peacefully at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights, Illinois on May 12, 2026. Larry had lived in the Huntley area for the past 20 years after moving from Elgin with his beloved wife, Christine.
Larry was born on January 11, 1946 to August and Mary Wojtas in Chicago, Illinois. Larry's passions propelled him to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout which inspired him to become a scout leader in his adult life. After he graduated from Fenwick High School in 1964, he went on to study Business Administration at DePaul University, graduating in 1968, where he was captain of the ROTC Squad and where he met his future wife.
Larry proudly served his country in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel (LTC). He served three years in active duty, over 25 years in the reserves, and was a Vietnam veteran who received the Bronze Star Medal for his service in combat. After his 34-year career in Facilities Management with Allstate, he focused his energies with the American Legion Post #57 in Elgin, participated in multiple softball leagues, spent time in his gardens and traveled all corners of the globe with Chris.
A faithful and devoted man, Larry was an active member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Huntley, where he generously gave his time through the funeral ministry. He will be remembered for his kindness, service to others, strong sense of duty, and love for his family and friends.
Larry was the cherished husband of Christine (nee Banas); loving father of Matthew (Margaret Bucaro) Wojtas and Jessica (Glenn) Figenholtz; proud grandfather of Francesca, Zachary, and Lucas Wojtas, and Stella and Mara Figenholtz. He was the devoted brother of Theresa (the late Ajit) Wojtas, Barbara (Sal) Faso, Robert (Nancy) Wojtas, Lenard Wojtas, and Bernard (Margaret) Wojtas. He was also the dear son-in-law of Helen (the late Henry) Banas, and a loving uncle to many nieces, nephews, and to friends whose lives he touched deeply.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 2:00-5:00 p.m. at DeFiore Funeral Home, 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley. A second visitation will be held Monday, May 18, 2026, from 9:00-10:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, 10307 Dundee Road, Huntley with the Funeral Mass at 10am. Burial will follow at Huntley Cemetery, 11503 Dean Street, Huntley.
In remembrance of Larry's dedication, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to one of the following options:
American Legion Post #57 (820 North Liberty, Elgin, Illinois 60120) to support military veterans
Huntley Area Lions Club (PO Box 901, Huntley, Illinois 60142), contact Mary Meyer, 224-654-0085 or donations can be made on-line, www.huntleyarealionsclub.org to support local community programs
For further information, please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to DeFiore Funeral Home.
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So sorry. Sending prayers to you and the family.
Rest in peace, buddy. We have been dear friends for over 60 years. God bless you for a wonderful life!
My most sincere condolences to the entire family. Sending warmth and prayers.