Lawrence “Larry” T. McCormick

Lawrence “Larry” Thomas McCormick (CPD), passed away peacefully on March 14, 2025, at the age of 83.  He was living at the Illinois Veterans Home at La Salle at the time of his passing.

A “Celebration of Life” family Memorial Service will be held in the summer of 2025 where Larry’s remains will rest peacefully at the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery for Veterans in Elwood, IL The Hurst Funeral Home is entrusted with his funeral arrangements.

Larry was born on July 29, 1941 in Chicago, and grew up in St. Kilian Parish where he attended grammar school while garnering many life-long friendships along the way.  While quite an established accordion player, he loved sitting at his bedroom window while squeezing his accordion loudly for the neighborhood’s ears (favorite accordion songs “Kiss of Fire” and “Lady of Spain”). Larry’s many childhood days were spent participating in sport activities offered by Foster Park located across Loomis Boulevard from his childhood home.  Larry was known as quite an athlete in his day as he played football, basketball, baseball, ice hockey and won the title of “Silver Skates” in a Chicago ice skating speed tournament during high school years.  At Valparaiso High School, he won a varsity letter in junior year for football.

Larry served in the United States Army, stationed in Seoul, South Korea from May 1962 to December 1964, when he received an Honorable discharge.  While serving our country, Larry was awarded decorations and medals as a “Sharpshooter” for both rifle and pistol accuracy. As a former Chicago Police Officer, Larry was also honored with several commendations for his dedicated service. 

Returning from the service, Larry married his childhood love, Charlene Francen (preceded in death), having four cherished children: Thomas Lawrence (Mary), Michael Joseph, Cheri Lynn, and James Robert.  Larry is also survived by his sister Maureen McCormick Wright (Joseph) and Daniel Robert McCormick (CPD).  He is an uncle to many.  Larry is preceded in death by his loving parents, Thomas Lawrence “Larry” McCormick(CPD) and Irene M. McCormick-Mezy, as well as his beloved “Gram” Theresa Bent.

Larry always embraced life on his own terms, staying true to himself every step of the way - just as in the song “My Way”.  We love you, Larry, and will carry your memory in our hearts forever.

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