Larry Eugene Bilger, 83, formerly of Elkhart and currently of Daphne, AL, passed away on Monday, July 15, 2024, at The Retreat at SAAD Hospice in Mobile, AL. He was born on July 21, 1940, in Fort Wayne, to the late Kenneth and Ailene (Fell) Bilger. Larry graduated from North Side High School in Fort Wayne, in 1958, where he also played basketball and football.

Larry is survived by his sons, Barry (Sharon), Mark (Diana), and Drew (Stacie) Bilger; 7 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; sisters, Barbara Goodwin, and KayEllen (Steven) Gebhart; his classmate and former spouse, Cynthia Orcutt Bilger; and a loving host of extended family, friends, and acquaintances.

In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Robert Goodwin.

Larry graduated with his bachelor's degree in mathematics from Franklin College in 1962, where he played basketball and golf, and went on to receive his master's degree from Ball State University, graduating in 1969. He began his teaching and coaching career working for various school corporations but ultimately ended up in Elkhart where he taught high school mathematics at Memorial High School until his retirement in 2002.

Larry was a high school basketball and golf coach, teaching students to learn the sports he deeply enjoyed. He also spent many days at Bent Oak Golf Course, playing on the greens and relaxing in the sun.

A private family gathering will be held in Larry's memory at a later date. Billings Funeral Home of Elkhart is assisting with service and burial arrangements.

Larry will be dearly missed by those whose hearts he touched throughout his life.