Lawerence "Larry" Eldon Hensell

Larry Hensell, 87, of Peru, Indiana, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2026, at Blair Ridge Health Center.

Larry was born on August 12, 1938, in Denver, Indiana, to A.D. and Pauline Hensell. On June 27, 1964, he married the love of his life, Martha (Garland) Hensell, with whom he shared a lifetime of devotion and partnership.

Larry proudly served his country in the United States Navy for four years. He then dedicated 28½ years to the Peru Fire Department, where he became a respected and familiar figure in the community. For 15½ years, he served as Assistant Fire Chief, and in his final four years, he served as Fire Chief. Known affectionately as “Smoke,” Larry was deeply committed to protecting others. He believed strongly in doing what was right and earned the respect and admiration of all who had the privilege of serving alongside him.

In addition to his service in the fire department, Larry worked for 44+ years at Flowers-Leedy & Allen Funeral Home. Even after retirement, he continued to work part-time, reflecting his strong work ethic and belief that there was always something worthwhile to be done. Larry was never one to sit idle—he found purpose in staying busy, often saying there was no such thing as “slow time,” only time to improve and take pride in a job well done.

Larry found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed long walks with Martha, fishing, traveling, watching sports—especially Indiana University—smoking a good cigar, and, most importantly, spending time with his beloved family, whom he cherished deeply.

He was preceded in death by his grandson, Justin Koehl, and great-grandson, Abram Koehl.

Larry is survived by his loving wife, Martha; his children, Brenda (Steve) Henderson and Brian (Angela) Hensell; his grandchildren, (Deidra) Koehl, Breonna (Dustin) Hensell, Jordan (Jake) Hale, Brooke Hensell, and Madelyn (Donovan) Eads; and his great-grandchildren, Hadleigh Edwards, Rhett Hale, Reese Hale, Lincoln Koehl, and Ella Koehl. He took immense pride in his role as a grandfather and great-grandfather, and his legacy lives on through them.

Larry was a devoted member of the community and his faith. He was a member of First Christian Church in Peru and a 50+ year member of the Peru-Miami F&AM Lodge #67, where he served many years as Treasurer and Trustee. He was also a member of the Indianapolis Scottish Rite, Murat Shrine, Moose Lodge, and the Maennerchor.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Flowers-Leedy & Allen Funeral Home, 105 W. 3rd Street, Peru, Indiana, with Masonic Rites beginning at 6:45 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Military Rites at the graveside.

Larry will be remembered as a man of integrity—loyal, strong, dependable, and honest. His life was defined by service, dedication, and love for his family and community. He made a lasting impact on the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lawerence "Larry" Eldon Hensell, please visit our floral store.