Larry John Buchta

Larry John Buchta, a member of the Columbus, Indiana community, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2025. Born on August 29, 1939, in the small town of Otwell, Indiana, Larry's heartfelt presence touched many lives until he departed at the age of 85 in Columbus. Growing up as a son of the late Hilbert and Wilma Weisheit Buchta, Larry's early years in Otwell instilled in him values of hard work, commitment, and the importance of family, which he carried throughout his life. He was a proud graduate of Otwell High School in 1957 and later extended his academic journey at Purdue University, where he earned a degree in Agriculture. Larry's professional life was marked by a commendable 28-year tenure at Cummins Engine Company, from which he took early retirement. After retirement, he and his wife moved to Orlando, Florida, and he started a new career with ABC Bus Co. and later a real estate agent with Caldwell Banker. He was also a past member with Meridian Kiwanis and the Amateur Trap Shooting Association. He is survived by his wife Dorothy Hite Buchta. Larry's wisdom and laughter will be carried on by his children, Angela (Greg Brown) Floyd, of Columbus, Anna (Doug) Pitkin of Huntington, West Virginia, and John Buchta of Columbus, as well as his eight stepchildren. He is also survived by his grandchildren - Jarod Buchta, Rachel Floyd, Tanner (Tyler) Bowman, Taylor (Hugh) Friar, Emily (Jon) Sulak, and William Pitkin, and several step-grandchildren, alongside great-grandchildren, Jackson Floyd, Wyatt Meehling, Marie, Aubrey, and Leah Bowman, Daniel and Caroline Friar. Larry built a life rich in experiences and happiness. He was actively involved in his church, both in Columbus and Florida. Simple pleasures brought him the most joy: taking care of his yard in Florida, memories of the farm he grew up on, traveling and talking with others. He really enjoyed watching professional basketball and football on TV. In the later years, during his illness, what meant the most to him was family visiting. Larry is survived by his sisters, Janice (Delmas) Hamm of Petersburg, Indiana, Fay (Kenneth) Smith of Otwell, Indiana, and Bonnie Buchta of Jasper, Indiana, who carry fond memories of their brother, alongside the warmth of shared laughter and stories. Larry was preceded in death by his sisters Kay Lamb, Beverly Abel, and Matilda Buchta, and his granddaughter Lauren Floyd. A funeral service celebrating Larry’s life will take place at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at Traylor-Union Church in the Burr Oak community (4243 N Co Rd 1000 E, Otwell, IN) with Rev. Mark Hamaker officiating. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the funeral service on Saturday. The burial will be at Traylor-Union Cemetery in Otwell. A meal will follow the funeral service at Otwell Community Center. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in memory of Larry may do so to the Traylor-Union Church. Services are provided by the Jewell – Rittman Family Funeral Home in Columbus.