Larry Couch

Larry Couch, 82, Topeka, passed away, April 23, 2008, at Plaza West Health Care Center, after a short illness. Larry was born in Horton, KS on May 18, 1925. He was the oldest son of Cecil L. "Mike" Couch and Lily May Patterson Couch. Larry spent his younger years in Lamar, MO., and then went to the state of Washington to pick apples, but decided that wasnt much fun and returned to Topeka in 1947. Larry was employed as a route salesman for Seven-Up Bottling Company from 1952 to 1969. In 1969, he went to work for Pepsi Cola in the same capacity retiring in 1988. On June 20, 1958, he married Martha M. Booth in Holton, KS. They were just short of their 42nd anniversary as Martha passed away June 10, 2000. Larry spent a lot of enjoyable time working with semi-precious stones and making jewelry out of them, they made wonderful gifts at Christmas time. Larry was also interested in oil painting and started painting again in later years until his health forced him to give it up. Larry also liked to bowl, but never took it very serious, it was just a fun time for him. Larry had a great outlook on life as he grew older. He said, "he woke each morning thinking it was going to be a good day and if it wasnt he would try again tomorrow". He said, "he knew we were only guaranteed yesterday, should do our best to enjoy the current day and God would take care of tomorrow". He was a wonderful brother-in-law and it was my privilege to help him with whatever he needed done over the past 15 years. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Larry was preceded in death by his father on July 29, 1965, his mother on January 23, 1998, and a nephew, Kevin Lee Allen Couch on April 17, 1969. Survivors include his brother, William L. "Bill" Couch and wife, Phyllis, Topeka; brother, Bob and wife, Agnes of Sacramento, CA. He is also survived by four nieces; three nephews; five grand-nephews; five grand-nieces and a cousin, Jerry Couch of Cottage Grove, OR. As per Larrys wishes, he will be cremated and his remains will be handled at a later date. There will be no public services. Memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society in Larrys memory or to the donors choice, and sent in care of Newcomer Family Funeral Home, 4020 SW 6th, Topeka, KS 66606. To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.NewcomerFamily.com.