Lawrence Eugene Stutz, 85 (11/25/32-10/09/18), a native of Chicago, Illinois, formerly of Chula Vista, CA, Woodston, KS and Hays, KS and lately of National City, CA, passed away, following complications of pneumonia and an extended battle with Alzheimer’s, at the Sun and Sea Manor memory care hospice in Imperial Beach, CA, with much of his large family at his side while others kept a long distance vigil from their homes scattered throughout the U.S.

Larry began his career with over twenty-one years in the U.S. Navy. He was aboard the aircraft carrier, USS Coral Sea, for two deployments during the Vietnam War. When returning from one 18 month absence, his wife, Joan, and children did not recognize him furiously waving from the deck due to a big old mustache and full beard he’d grown. He also served on the USS Tutuila (an engine repair ship) on the Vietnam rivers. Following his Navy service, he retired as a Carpentry Shop Manager from NASSCO, a shipbuilding yard in National City. He also founded and ran his own successful Maintenance Company. Eventually, he embarked on the full-timing RV life for many years traveling throughout this great country. The family tradition continues as his descendants have inherited his lifelong love of camping and the outdoors.

He is survived and sorely missed by his loving wife of 59, yes 59, years, Joan Josephine Stutz, as well as his seven children (Jo Ann Stutz, Howard Stutz, Laura Webb, Lawrence Stutz, Keith Stutz, Gail Gibbs and Tracy Masters) and their spouses, 13 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

Anyone who knew Larry will remember his sense of humor, teasing play, generous spirit, big heart and love of family. Please think of those wonderful qualities for they embody the memories he would want you to hold.

Memorial Services will be at 4:00 PM, Saturday October 20th at Community Mortuary, 855 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA. Interment will follow on Tuesday, October 23rd, 12:30 PM.at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Drive, San Diego, CA.

There will be a gathering/potluck following the Memorial Services, place to be separately announced. .

For those unable to attend, you may visit the funeral home’s website to leave a condolence message.