Larry Wayne Chamberlain (69) of Effingham 

Published on March 23, 2026 10:18 am
Last Updated on March 23, 2026 10:19 am

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Larry Wayne Chamberlain, 69, of Effingham, IL, passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at Lakeland Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Effingham, IL.

Per Larry’s wishes, no services will be held at this time. Johnson Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.johnsonandsonsfh.com.

Larry was born on July 15, 1956 in Decatur, IL, the son of Wilmer Jr. and Marie (Gould) Chamberlain. He became a lifelong resident of Effingham, IL after the family moved there in 1957. Larry was a 1974 graduate of Effingham High School. He built a long career as a commodity broker, mostly working with his father Wilmer. Larry began his career at Stotler Grain, then later he worked at Agri Commodities, and Southern Illinois Commodities. For decades, Larry and Wilmer could be heard daily on WCRC radio reporting the prices of the grain market. Larry was an avid bird dog field trainer, starting out with one of his top award-winning dogs named Rambling Redwater Rex, who became a renowned sire to a long line of other top bird dogs. Larry loved caring for his animals daily, and he was known for always eagerly helping out at field trials. He got many people started in the business, including his nephew, Shawn Kinkelaar, who has become one of the top bird dog handlers in the country, and one of the most notable in the history of the sport. Larry was always behind the scenes, supporting Shawn’s business development however he could. Larry loved to talk endlessly about field trials, bird dogs and horses. He was also an avid St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan, and a Fighting Illini fan. Larry was known for his excitability and passion, and his youthful exuberance and friendliness will be missed.

Larry is survived by his sister, Carol Kinkelaar of Laguna Woods, CA; his nephews, Shawn Kinkelaar of Effingham, IL and Carson, ND; Brad (Le Anne) Kinkelaar of Newport Coast, CA; and his niece, Angie (Tim) Moore of Bloomington, IL; as well as 2 great nieces and 2 great nephews, and many other extended family members who he loved dearly.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Wilmer and Marie Chamberlain; his aunt and uncle, Dean and Mariann Austin; and cousin, Camron Austin.

The family is sincerely grateful to the many friends who gave Larry support and comfort when he needed it most.