Larry Dillman Heckaman, 66, of Syracuse, Ind., passed away Thursday morning Nov. 22, 2013, at IU Health Goshen Hospital.

He was born May 9, 1947, in Nappanee, Ind., to Ivo “Pete” Heckaman and Mona Lou “Motts” Heckaman.

Throughout Larry’s life, he touched many lives with his generosity, happy-go-lucky attitude and free spirit. Loving father and loyal friend, Larry was a favorite in the lake community where he loved warm summer days and rock ‘n roll nights.

For the past 17 years, Larry lived in Syracuse with longtime companion Diane Rager, along with her children, Alexandra and Kiel Rager.

Larry is survived by his brothers: Gene Heckaman, Wakarusa, Ind.; Kim Heckaman, Nappanee, Ind.; a sister: Linda Swank, Syracuse, Ind.; his five children: Danyi Beldavs, Bloomington, Ind.; Brooke Heckaman, San Francisco, Calif.; Lisa Heckaman, Manhattan Beach, Calif.; Adam Heckaman, San Francisco; Alexandra Heckaman, San Diego, Calif.; and grandchildren: Guthrie Douglas and Briviba Beldavs, both of Bloomington, Ind.

A celebration of life will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 24, at Oakwood Hotel in Syracuse. Flowers can be sent to Oakwood Hotel or donations can be made in Larry’s honor to the New Hope Pet Rescue of Syracuse.

Eastlund Funeral Home in Syracuse is handling the arrangements.