Larry Kottwitz-Kenton, 78, of Eugene, OR, died from complications connected to prostate cancer on Wednesday, April 15.
A celebration of life service will be held at New Hope College in Eugene on Saturday, June 6, at 2 p.m. The service will also be live-streamed.
Mr. Kenton was born on May 6, 1947, to Merle and Doris (Pounds) Kottwitz of Nokomis. He attended Nokomis schools and graduated from NHS with the class of 1965, and from Western Illinois University in 1969. He was a lifelong musician, gaining notoriety touring with Doc Severinsen and his band. He later toured with The Carpenters and followed as a respected member of the LA professional singer community. His talents for music arranging and orchestration led him to a successful career in the film industry, being known for his work on such feature films as “Star Trek,” “Mission Impossible III” and Pixar’s “Up,” which won two Academy Awards, a Golden Globe and two BAFTA awards. Ever the consummate performer, he brought his skills on the stage back to the theater after moving to Eugene in 2009 and became an active member of the area’s cultural life, contributing his gifts on the page, the stage and the podium, inspiring and mentoring a new generation of musicians in venues both formal and informal. However far his travels took him, he always enjoyed returning to visit his hometown.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, one of his greatest sources of joy throughout his life were his children and his grandchildren.Wherever he went, people knew him for his infectious zest for life and bringing encouragement and love to all who came into his life.
Mr. Kenton is survived by his sisters, Renay Beasley of Nokomis and Jody Martinez of Fullerton, CA; children, Jay Kenton and Alyssa Kenton; and grandchildren, Adelyn Kenton and Risa Kenton.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
