Larry Joseph Lonca

Larry Joseph Lonca of Buffalo, Ohio, was born on September 22, 1951, in Cambridge, Ohio to the late John and Margaret (Kovach) Lonca. Larry passed away on April 17, 2026, after a battle with cancer, with his wife by his side at the Selma Markowitz Care Center, operated by Hospice of Central Ohio.

He graduated from Meadowbrook High School in 1969. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He was a crew chief on Huey helicopters. Larry served 8 years, including serving 25 months in Vietnam. He was stationed at several Marine Corps installations. Larry finished his time as a Drill Instructor at Parris Island, SC. 

He was a very proud Veteran. After returning to Ohio, he worked at NACCO Mining Co, in Powhattan Point and worked in the oil fields for TIMCO Inc. before moving to Newark and working for Vertex Builders, building custom-built homes. He later became a Union Carpenter working for various construction companies before retiring. 

Larry also worked security for Buckeye Lake Music Center for several years. He was a life member and charter member of Buffalo VFW Post #8040 where he held several offices, including Post Commander for three years before recently transferring to Byesville VFW Post #3760. Larry was active in all levels of the Veterans of Foreign Wars including District 5 where he served as Jr. Vice, Sr. Vice and District Commander. He went on to hold numerous positions in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Dept. of Ohio, most recently including Chief of Staff to the state commander and Membership Director for the state of Ohio. Larry was also a member of Newark Moose Lodge #499. He was Catholic by faith.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, John A. Lonca and sister, Jeanne Brown.

He is survived by his loving wife, Pam (Downs) whom he married on April 16, 1994; daughter, Alexis (Robert) Hudson; grandchildren, Christopher Hudson, Rebecca Hudson and Thomas Hudson; great-grandson, Adrian John Hudson, all of Missouri.

Larry enjoyed vacationing in Pigeon Forge and Myrtle Beach. He liked fast cars, Harleys and the Dallas Cowboys.

Per Larry’s request he did not wish to have a funeral.

To leave an online condolence, please visit www.brucker-kishlerfuneralhome.com

The flowers will be arranged by John Edward Price Flowers. https://www.johnedwardpriceflowers.com/ or order gifts through our cafe, please visit https://memorial-gifts-at-brucker-kishler.myshopify.com/