Larry R. Wilders

Larry R. “Butch” “Zeke” Wilders. 78, of Derry, died peacefully on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at St. Anne Home, Greensburg, surrounded by his family. Larry was born on May 18, 1947 in Somerset, PA, a son of the late Robert and Charlotte (Pritts) Riffle Wilders and stepfather Ralph T. Riffle. Prior to retirement Larry worked at Latrobe Steel and also worked post retirement at Laurel Valley Golf Course. He was a member of the Derry Rod and Gun Club and Trout Unlimited. In his spare time Larry was an avid fisherman with many buddies who shared his passion. He enjoyed golfing, boating, and many trips to the beach. He could be found at many of Derry’s sporting events to cheer on his grandsons in all sports. He was also a beloved Derry coach to many of his children’s friends during his younger years. He was well known around Derry and always offered a witty comment and a smile. He enjoyed hosting many family and friends who always said Larry and Linda’s house is like coming home always warm and welcoming. Above all, Larry’s biggest love was spending time as a pappy to his eleven grandchildren. He never missed an event and there were many! He will be fondly remembered for his love for them most of all! Besides his parents Larry is preceded in death by his son-in-law William Bracken, Jr.; one brother Richard Wilders; four sisters-in-law Karen and Bonnie Wilders, Jackie Shine, and Tammy Baranowski; one brother-in-law Walter Wege; and special aunt and uncle Marge and Ron Riffle. Larry is survived by his loving wife of almost 60 years, Linda Joe Wilders; three children Toni Bracken, Larry Wilders (Ami), and Marnie Darazio (Johnny); two brothers Dennis Wilders and Todd Riffle (DeeDee); eleven grandchildren Justin (Autumn), Jeffrey (Britta), Jacob (Lauryn), Cole, Evan, Ethan (Ryan), Roman, Jake, Noah, Luke, and Ava; four great-grandchildren Adonys, Alaryc, Anakyn, and Aydin; sister-in-law Sandra Bolinger (Craig); brother-in-law Eugene Joe, Jr. (Connie) and many special nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Family will receive friends for Larry’s Life Celebration 2-8PM, Thursday, January 29, 2026 at the Matthew X. Merlin Funeral Home Inc. 529 N. Chestnut St. Derry, PA 724-694-8331. A Blessing Service will follow in the funeral home at 8pm, with the Rev. Salvatore R. Lamendola as officiant. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation at www.parkinson.org. The family would like to give a special thanks to St. Anne’s Home for all of the compassion and care of Larry. Online condolences may be made to www.merlinfuneralhome.com.

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