Obituary of Larry Horton Rockensuess Sr.

December 2, 1950 - March 9, 2026

Larry Horton Rockensuess Sr.  Age 75 of Trenton.

Larry Horton Rockensuess Sr. (“Rocky”), age 75, of Trenton, Michigan, passed away on Monday, March 9, 2026. Born December 2, 1950, in Wyandotte, Michigan, Larry lived a life devoted to faith, family, music, and community. 

Larry was the beloved husband of 55 years to Jane Rockensuess. He was a loving father to Heidi (Louis) Horvath, Holly Rockensuess, Larry Rockensuess Jr., and Heather Rockensuess, and a proud grandfather to Will Rose, Cooper Horvath, Hunter Horvath, and Ella Rose. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Peggy Rockensuess, Diane Hicks, Karen (Rick) Pflaum, and brother-in-law Jim Sullivan, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and anyone who shared his beloved last name.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Dorothy Rockensuess, and his siblings Mary Ann, Gerald, George “Kenny,” Dorothy, Doris, Marguerite, Arthur, and Ruth, as well as many beloved pets. 

Larry graduated from Roosevelt High School in January 1969 and later attended Eastern Michigan University. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion in December 1984 from Concordia University Ann Arbor, with minors in Theology and Vocal Music Performance. 

Music and the performing arts were lifelong passions for Larry. He performed with the Seaway Chorale, Downriver Community Voices, and the Sauerkraut 8, which he founded as a way to combine his affinity for his German heritage and unique sense of humor. From his days as a tuba player and drum major at Roosevelt High School to performing in community and high school musical theater productions such as Guys & Dolls and Fiddler on the Roof, Larry’s love of music and performance enriched both his life and the lives of those around him. For 25 years, he also served as the announcer for the Trenton High School Marching Band Invitational. 

Larry faithfully served as a Minister of Music and Youth in several Lutheran congregations throughout his life, including Immanuel Lutheran Church in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; Faith Lutheran Church in Collierville, Tennessee; Grace Lutheran Church in Monroe, Michigan; and Peace Lutheran Church in Southgate, Michigan. Most recently, he served as a volunteer with Trinity Lutheran Church in Wyandotte, Michigan, and worked with the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Michigan District. Before entering ministry, Larry worked at Vulcan Mold & Iron Company, Fritz Enterprises, and Ottawa Silica Sand Company. 

Outside of his work and ministry, Larry found great joy in spending time with his grandchildren and supporting their activities. He was an avid sports fan, particularly devoted to the University of Michigan, where he held football season tickets since the 1970s and was active in the Downriver U of M Club. He was also a dedicated fan of the Detroit Tigers and enjoyed attending any sporting event involving his children or grandchildren. Larry also loved live theater, traveling for youth gatherings and performances (including trips overseas), and collecting many items such as baseball cards, lapel pins, sporting event programs, coins, and movies. Among his many talents, he was also proud to have been a chili cook-off champion. 

Memorial contributions are appreciated to Concordia Publishing House. 

In honor of Larry’s love for sports, guests are invited to wear University of Michigan or Detroit Tigers colors or apparel to the visitation. 

Larry will be remembered for his deep faith; his love of music, sports, and “Dad” jokes; and the joy he brought to family, friends, and his community. His legacy of service, laughter, and devotion will live on in the many lives he touched.