Larry Nesler

East Alton:

Larry Nesler, 75, passed away at 1:36pm on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, in the emergency room at Anderson Hospital. He was born on May 29, 1950, in Wood River, the son of the late Ross and Vera (Trantham) Nesler. He married the former Joyce Combs on October 13, 1973, in Wood River, and she survives. Other survivors include a son and daughter in law: Curtis and Joan Roberts of Wood River, a daughter and son in law: Virginia and Frank Gifford of Stuart, Florida, two grandchildren: Tyler (Melissa) Walsh of Bethalto, Bryant (Brittany) Walsh of Arnold, Missouri, two grandchildren: Amelia, Harrison, an expectant great grandchild, a brother and sister in law: Jack and Mary Nesler of Rosewood Heights, a sister: Janet Hunt of Wood River, and many nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends.

Larry was employed for twenty eight years at Laclede Steel prior to going to work at Southern Illinois University East St. Louis Campus where he worked in the maintenance department of fifteen years. He was a veteran of the United States Army serving in the Vietnam War.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter: LeAnn Walsh, a grandson: Eric Wood, a brother: Scott Nesler, and a sister: Donna Schulte.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 9am until time of funeral services at 10:30am on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.

Memorials are suggested to the 5A’s or to Peace Church and will be accepted at the funeral home.