Larry Odell Groce
March 31, 1947 ~ May 24, 2024
Larry Odell Groce, 77, of Waverly, passed peacefully at his home on Friday, May 24, 2024 with family at his side. He was born in Burksville, Kentucky on March 31, 1947 to the late Clura Odell Groce and Mary Dean (Hager) Groce.
He graduated from New Castle High School with the class of 1965. He attended Ball State University and IUPUI. In 1967, he joined the United States Army and served his country honorably in Vietnam as a member of the Screaming Eagles Paratroopers from the 101st Airborne. He did receive several accolades during his time in the service including a bronze star. When he completed his duty and returned home, he went to work for Indiana Bell (which changed to Ameritech and is now AT&T) where he worked in various positions including management. Larry retired in 1999 after 32 years of service. He also owned and operated Artisan Builders and Custom Wood Working LLC. He was a member of the Great Hope Separate Baptist Church in Franklin.
Larry was a talented woodworker and carpenter. An avid animal lover, he was not a cat or a dog guy. He was both! Larry enjoyed boating on Lake Cumberland, riding his Harley Davidson Motorcycle, camping, college basketball, and vintage cars. Most importantly, he found great joy in time spent with his family. No matter what the activity, Larry relished the quality time spent with his children and grandchildren.
He will be missed and fondly remembered by many including his sons, John (wife, Allison) Groce of Richfield, Ohio and David (wife, Stephanie) Groce of Danville; daughter, Kimberly Groce (husband, Alan Niederman) of Fort Lauderdale, Florida; grandchildren, Devann Taylor, Luke Short, Conner Groce, Garrett Groce, Taylor Short, Cole Short, Beau Short, Camden Groce, and Cate Groce; great grandchild, Weston Short; beloved dog, Hank; grand dogs, Lupa and Gemma; and grand cat, Icey.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Mary, and Clura Groce; wife, Linda Groce; and grand cat, Princess.
Family and friends are invited to visit on Friday, May 31st from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon in the chapel at Carlisle-Branson Funeral Service & Crematory in Mooresville. Larry’s Life Celebration Service will follow beginning at 12:00 noon at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest with military honors at 3:00 pm in South Mound Cemetery in New Castle.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center using the following link: https://secure2.convio.net/mskcc/site/TR?px=5375631&fr_id=4085&pg=personal
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Kim,John and David, I am so sorry. Larry was always so kind and I loved him like a brother!
For Larry’s kids & grandkids; Mike & I have loved Larry since before he became part of our family back in our Indiana Bell days and that friendship only grew stronger over all the family events we shared for decades. All our love & prayers for peace & comfort from Jesus, whom we know Larry worshipped & trusted in. God bless. Hugs to all. From Lynn & Mike Fotiades
Chris, Lori & Nora Holtmann has purchased Eternal Friendship for Larry Groce
This is how we will remember Larry! In his happy place! You are greatly missed.
Calise and Jeff Mossler has purchased Cherished Moments – Red & White for Larry Groce
The world has lost a treasure. You cannot have a more honest, generous, kind, and loyal friend than Larry. We only knew him for a short time but felt that he was a part of our family. We have no doubt that anyone who knew Larry cherished and loved him. He will be missed.
Our sincerest condolences to his family.
Bruce & Joanne Wexler has purchased Designer’s Choice for Larry Groce
Lord, we know that You are the God who comforts us. I pray that You provide a time of comfort and rest for those whose hearts are hurting right now. Hold them in Your embrace, Father. Wrap them in Your love and remind them that though they may have lost someone dear, they are not alone, for You are with them. Bring to them the hope of Your unfailing love and turn their sadness into gladness. Soothe their heartache as they lean on You for comfort and guidance. I pray that their grief heals smoothly, for You will be with them every step of the way. May they hold on to You for strength, hope, and sustenance.
My condolences to Larry’s family members, we worked together at Indiana Bell at various locations. It all started about 52 years ago in Elwood. Though it has been many years since I have seen him, I always considered him a good friend. He will be deeply miss as he was one of the “good guys.”
Ken and Kirk Age has purchased Pure Peace for Larry Groce
Our friendship endures forever
Ryan & Leanna Gensler has purchased Designer’s Choice for Larry Groce
Blaine Calhoun has purchased Peace Lily for Larry Groce
RJ Nemer, University of Akron has purchased Designer’s Choice for Larry Groce