Resident Spotlight: Larry Kratzer
April 30, 2024
Introducing our Resident Spotlight: Larry Kratzer, a vibrant soul with a lifetime of stories and experiences. Larry's journey began in Buford, Ohio, on June 7th, 1940. With a younger brother named Victor by his side, Larry ventured to Mt. Orab at the age of 22, where he embarked on a remarkable career at Cincinnati Milacron. As an engineer, supervisor, and specialist in the manufacturing field, Larry played pivotal roles in the establishment of two plants, leaving his mark in Mt. Orab and Greenville, South Carolina.
Along the way, Larry found love and companionship in Linda, with whom he raised three children: Lisa, Louann, and Layne. Their family thrived on spontaneity, often embarking on impromptu adventures across the country. Larry proudly boasts of having traversed every state except Alaska, each journey a testament to his zest for life.
However, life's journey presented its share of challenges. At the age of 30, Larry received news about his health, foreseeing kidney problems in his future. Undeterred, he faced these adversities head-on, navigating through kidney issues and knee ailments with resilience and determination.
In February 2021, Larry became a cherished member of our community, bringing his warmth and sociability to Batavia Nursing Care Center. Despite his health challenges, Larry's spirit remained undiminished. With the assistance of our Therapy Department, he embraced newfound independence with an electric wheelchair, allowing him to traverse our halls with ease.
Now, Larry is not just a resident; he's a social butterfly, spreading joy wherever he goes. Whether it's engaging in his favorite pastimes like Bingo and Lucky or simply striking up a conversation with fellow residents, Larry's presence brightens our days.
So, if you happen to find yourself in Batavia, make sure to pay a visit to our facility and meet Larry. He'll entertain you with tales from his colorful life, leaving you with a smile on your face and a warmth in your heart. Larry Kratzer: a true testament to the power of resilience and the beauty of human connection.