Lawrence "Larry" Lottino

Lawrence “Larry” Lottino, 71, passed away at his home Monday May 8th, 2023.

Larry was born July 21, 1951 in Blue Island, IL to parents Lawrence “Babe” and Shirley (Cogswell) Lottino.  He grew up in Dolton, IL with his sisters Lauren and Rita, and brother Mike. He graduated from St Mary’s Riverdale, Thornridge High School, received bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Illinois State University, and continued his education at Joliet Junior College.

Larry was an educator.  It was his passion in life, and he shared this passion at correctional facilities, public schools (Districts 86 and 204), Joliet Junior College, IMSA, Manhattan Junior High, Guardian Angel Home, and the US Forest Services at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie.

Larry loved being in nature; riding his bike, taking his grandchildren hiking, fishing, golfing, and cross country skiing.  He loved campfires with his wife, playing guitar, and listening to music.

Larry is survived by his loving wife of 45 years Beth (nee Lorenc), his children Katie (Ryan) Shaw and Joe (Sarah) Lottino, and four perfect grandchildren – Kyla and Kenzie Shaw, and Connor and Lucas Lottino; his brother Mike Lottino, and sisters Rita and Lauren, and several aunts, uncles, in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews.

A memorial service celebrating Larry’s life and legacy will be held Saturday May 13th from 1-5 pm at Tezaks’ Funeral Home – 1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, IL 60435, followed by food, drinks, and reminiscing at Will County Brewing Company’s Channahon location 24735 W Eames St, Channahon, IL 60410 following the service, all are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, we know that Larry would love you to support either or both of the following organizations:

Midewin Tallgrass Prairie - https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/places-we-protect/midewin-national-tallgrass-prairie/

Guardian Angel Home - https://www.gacsprograms.org/donategoods/

In a final act of ultimate coolness, Larry requested that we create a playlist called "Songs of Life" for everyone to add songs to to be played at his memorial service.

“Songs of Life” https://open.spotify.com/playlist/132QmXiSWEV3clPvSnqOYg?si=10f570ec19fa4add&pt=1f02f95fa9b4d0c8e66bb78c41749637