Chester Larry Frear

Chester Larry Frear passed away peacefully at home on March 14, 2025, after a courageous two-and-a-half-year battle with pancreatic cancer. He faced his illness with unwavering determination, strength, and grace—fighting with every ounce of his being.

Larry was born on October 3, 1945, in Lancaster, Ohio. He was the middle of three children to Chester Lloyd and Elfreda Timmons Frear. A proud native of Lancaster, he never missed a Fairfield County Fair. His first visit came at just one week old, when the driver taking him and his mother home from the hospital made a detour through the fairgrounds.

He graduated from Lancaster High School in 1963 and from Ohio University in 1967. Shortly after graduation, he joined the U.S. Navy, completed Officer Candidate School, and received his commission in 1968. While stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, he met the love of his life, Mary Ann.

After returning to Lancaster following his Navy service, Larry began building homes alongside his brother. This hands-on work revealed his natural entrepreneurial spirit and sparked a lifelong interest in real estate development. He had a deep appreciation for the freedom and flexibility that came with working for himself—and found great satisfaction in the process. He especially enjoyed the challenge of making his businesses more efficient and profitable. Whether he was fine-tuning systems, solving problems, or uncovering hidden potential, he approached every task with quiet determination and an unfailing sense of purpose. This love of entrepreneurship was something he eagerly passed on to his children, encouraging them to take risks, pursue their passions, and build lives rooted in purpose and independence. His influence can be seen in their careers, choices, and mindset.

He was a man of kindness, generosity, and integrity—a steady presence who taught by example and left a legacy of love, humility, and hard work. His sense of humor endured to the very end. Even in the ICU, he cracked corny jokes, teased the staff, and offered smiles that lifted everyone around him.

Larry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother. He took great joy in encouraging his children and grandchildren and celebrating their accomplishments in school, sports, and life. He shared adventures around the world with his son—riding tuk-tuks in Thailand, camels in Morocco, and jeeps through the Colombian jungle. He looked forward each year to family trips to Key West and Wrightsville Beach, where he joined in spirited beach games and created memories that will live on for generations.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Mary Ann. He is also survived by his children: Morgan Winters and her husband Jonathon, Meredith Frear, and Ben Frear and his wife Katie. His cherished grandchildren are Gabe and Elise Frear, and Wesley and Wade Winters. He is also survived by his sister, Darlene Wolfinger; his brother-in-law, Paul Naumuk; and several nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Daniel Frear.

Caring Cremation® has taken place. A memorial gathering will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the charity of your choice in Larry’s honor.

To send an online condolence, and sign the guest book, please visit www.funeralhome.com.