Dates
Larry Frank Loika, age 73, passed away on June 20, 2026. He was born on July 22, 1952, to Gilbert and Eloise Dankworth Loika.
On June 20, 1987, Larry married the love of his life, Flo Tarter Loika. Together they built a life marked by love, hard work, dedication, and a deep commitment to family. Remarkably, thirty-nine years to the day after their wedding, Larry entered into eternal rest, leaving behind a legacy that will continue for generations.
Larry devoted much of his life to the irrigation industry. As a licensed irrigator, he took great pride in his profession and was especially proud that his irrigator license number was under 700, reflecting his years of experience and commitment to the trade. Those who knew Larry knew that he approached his work with integrity, skill, and a desire to serve others well.
In January 1987, Larry and Flo founded All-Tex Irrigation and Supply. Their first location was so small that PVC pipe had to be stored inside the building. Larry often laughed about those early days, saying contractors would come in through the front door and leave out the back, affectionately calling it the "party barn of irrigation." After ten years in business, Larry and Flo purchased property on Jackson Street, where Larry personally designed the building and site layout that became the company's home for many years.
Larry and Flo enjoyed years of success together before Larry was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis. On May 1, 2009, he received a lung transplant, a gift that allowed him to continue doing what he loved. Larry returned to work and remained active in the business for several more years. In 2014, after many months of discussions, Jeff Perrine purchased All-Tex Irrigation Supply and has continued to build upon the strong foundation Larry established.
Larry loved sharing stories from his childhood. Two of his favorites involved having his first-grade picture taken with Flo, and having his photograph taken with Rin-Tin-Tin at the airport when he was six years old. He would often joke, "Life got pretty dull after six."
Nothing brought Larry greater joy than his family. He especially loved Christmas and delighted in spoiling his grandchildren, often buying them the latest electronic gadgets he could find. Whether at work, at home, or spending time with family, Larry was known as a good and kind man whose generosity and caring spirit touched everyone around him.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Eloise Loika; his older brother, Jimmy Loika; sisters-in-law, Suzy Loika and Justeen Loika; and other beloved family members who welcomed him into eternity.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Flo Loika; son, Aaron Loika; daughter, Kimberly Burrus and husband Deen; brother, Randy Loika; sister-in-laws, Barbara Morgan, Judy Kaufman, and Emily Loika; and numerous extended family members and friends.
Larry also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Kage Loika, Kynison Strong and husband Noah, Grandon Burrus, and Grace Burrus; his great-grandson, Laurence Strong; and another great-grandchild expected in January 2027.
He is further survived by nieces and nephews Alex Zacheis and husband Gentry, Erica Price and husband Bryan, Jimmy Morgan and wife Rena, Mike Morgan and wife Tamara, Randy Morgan, and Dowe Kaufman and wife Bella.
Funeral Service will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 10:00am at Harper Funeral Home with burial to follow at Fairmount Cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers will be Doyle Schniers, Daryl Schniers, Kevin Schniers, Rodney Drgac, Erwin Schwartz Jr., and grandson Grandon Burrus. Honorary pallbearer will be Erwin Schwartz Sr.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Meals for the Elderly.