Larry Hart, age 73, formerly of Decorah, Iowa, passed away Sunday, July 26, 2026, at his home in Des Moines, Iowa.

A private service will be held at a later date.

Larry was born on October 22, 1952, in St. Cloud, Minnesota, to Donald Dean Hart and Lucille Marie Hart, both of whom preceded him in death.

After the family moved several times during Larry’s childhood, they eventually settled in Decorah, Iowa in 1966. Larry participated in football, wrestling, and golf at Decorah High School and graduated in 1971.

Larry earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Luther College, where he was a decorated and accomplished wrestler. Following graduation, he lived in Chicago, Illinois and managed several retail businesses before returning to Decorah in 1981 to be a co-owner of Hart's Bakery & Coffee Shop with his parents and sister, Leann. For years, the bakery was a warm gathering place for the community. After the business was sold in 1997, Larry moved to West Des Moines, where he became a master coffee roaster and worked alongside his brother-in-law Howard, and sister Debbie. At the time of his passing, he was employed in the bakery at Casey's General Store. Larry took pride in his craft and was incredibly well-liked by his coworkers for his exceptional work ethic and warm personality.

Larry was a devoted father to his son, Cory. He also enjoyed golfing, playing foosball, and cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes. Larry will be remembered as a kind and genuine man, a loyal friend to many, and someone who always enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

Larry is survived by his son, Cory Hart; his sisters, Debbie Fischer, Sandie Anderson, Pat Ryan, Nancy Manning, Leann Abraham, and Linda Luedtke; and his brother, Lanny Hart.