Larry Eugene Bielema

Larry Eugene Bielema, age 80, of Thomson, IL, passed away on February 15, 2024, at Allure Nursing Home, Mt. Carroll, IL. A celebration of Larry’s life will be held from 1:00 p.m. ~ 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 22 in the basement hall of the United Methodist Church, in Thomson, IL. Please join for food and fellowship as we honor Larry’s life.

Larry was born September 7, 1943 in Clinton, IA, to Ben and Marjorie (Wierenga) Bielema. Larry was number two of five children. He attended Fulton schools, and then soon moved to Tucson, AZ, where he, as he claimed, “built half the houses in Tucson.” He spent years laying foundation footings for home developments. Then, after his father’s passing, Larry moved back to the Savanna area to help take care of his mother.

On October 28, 1995, Larry married Joan McColley, in Savanna, IL, at Community United Church of Christ. They lived together in their home in Thomson, for 30 years.

Larry was very industrious and liked to stay busy. He was the type of man who enjoyed just about any job where he could work with hands; such things as scrapping metal and pouring concrete. In fact, his main “hobby” in retirement was building sheds.

In his free time, Larry enjoyed playing cards with friends, often with his dear Joanie at his side. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing and boating, and loved to hunt for historical treasures with his metal detector.

Larry is survived by his wife, Joan Marie Bielema; son, Steve; stepson, Jason Reese, of Cordova, IL; brother, Kenny (Peggy) Bielema, of Fulton; and sisters, Nancy Habben, of Coleta, Brenda (Bill) Council, of Fulton, and Marilyn (Jim) Carswell, of Fulton. Larry is preceded in death by his parents.