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Dr. Larry S. Lawrence

About

Ohio University

FUNERAL HOME

Moreland Funeral Home - Westerville

55 E. Schrock Road

Westerville, Ohio

Larry Lawrence Obituary

LAWRENCE Dr. Larry S. Lawrence died on January 1, 2009, as a result of cancer. He was born and grew up in Whitehouse, Ohio. He graduated from Ohio University (B.S.) and The Ohio State University College of Dentistry (D.D.S. and M.S.). Larry was preceded in death by his parents Sidney and Laura Mae Lawrence. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Lou; his brother, Wendell Lawrence; and sister, Dorothy Hiser; as well as his sons, Scott (Margie), Pat, and Rodd (Linda); and daughter, Lindsay (Robin). Larry also leaves nine grandchildren. Larry lived his life according to one credo: always leave things better than the way you found them. When he was not productive in some other way, Larry could be found fixing a tractor, building a barn or pouring concrete. Every day, and in every situation, he strove to leave things better than the way he found them. Larry also always encouraged his employees, friends and family to do better and make things better. In his quest for improvement, he could be impatient, and a short but heartfelt "good job" would be his typical acknowledgement for any accomplishment. However, Larry's greatest talent was leading by example. He usually got up earlier and worked longer than anyone. He did this with the goal of making things better, usually for other people. He worked to make things better in high school where he was a multisport athlete, class president and selected to Boys State. He worked to make things better at Ohio University, where he played quarterback for the 1953 MAC Championship team and was All Conference Honorable Mention and a Phi Kappa Tau. Additionally, at OU, he met and courted his future bride of 53 years, Mary Lou. He worked to make things better at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry where he graduated with honors in 1958. After serving two years in the Public Health Service, Larry returned to Ohio State to earn his M.S., specializing in orthodontics. He made things better in his professional career as an orthodontist for 43 years in the Columbus area. While improving the smiles of thousands of children, he also served on numerous Boards and Associations, including service as President of the Ohio Orthodontists Association. Larry was a sports enthusiast who loved the Bobcats and liked the Buckeyes. In addition to being a pretty decent football, basketball and baseball player, he taught himself later in life to be a competitive tennis player and golfer, and he was an avid skier. He also loved ice cream and spending time with family and friends on Middle Bass Island. Most importantly, Larry was a good son, a good brother, a good husband, a good father, a good neighbor and a good friend. He established a scholarship at Ohio University for athletes seeking to attend medical school. As was his way, he named the scholarship after someone other than himself. If the measure of one's life is the number of people that one helps, then Larry lived a great and admirable life. Good job, Larry. In lieu of flowers, and with Larry in mind, help to educate a child or do something else significant to make things better for someone. Friends may call at Moreland Funeral Home, 55 East Schrock Road in Westerville on Saturday, January 10, 2009, from 2-4 p.m. A memorial service will be held immediately thereafter. Private Internment.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Jan. 4 to Jan. 8, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Larry Lawrence

33 Entries

Scott Lawrence

January 13, 2009

Remembering Dad

I remember:

Dad teaching me to how to throw, catch, and hit a baseball and how to throw and punt a football; me teaching him later a few things about tennis.

Watching Dad’s softball games on Thursday nights at the Columbus Jewish Center as he would power home runs beyond the light poles in the outfield and throw out hapless base runners with his rifle arm. Runners would often round third on a hit to the deep outfield, only to find the catcher awaiting them with the ball in his glove.

Riding in Dad’s ice blue 1964 Mustang convertible with the top down to a softball game with my buddies and I sitting on the top of the back seats to which a Bexley policeman took exception as he pulled Dad over, greatly raising my status at school the next day.

Family ski trips to Mansfield, New York, Vermont, and Colorado.

Dad’s returns from his solo ski trips sometimes sporting a full beard, a red beard at that. Usually the beard would be shaved in a couple of days, but one year, much to Mom’s dismay, he kept the beard for weeks. Then, one morning as Dad joined the family for breakfast, a big smile appeared on Mom’s face as she saw that the beard was gone. The smile quickly disappeared when Dad turned his head to reveal that half of his face was smooth, the other half still bearded. He announced “some people like it and some people don’t” and went to work seeing his patients that way for several days before the beard finally disappeared for good.

The family trip to the new Disney World in an RV, with he and I, with my temporary driver’s license, switching places at the wheel while still driving on a rain-soaked stretch of freeway so he could take a nap and so we wouldn’t lose any time. The rides at Disney World seemed pretty tame after the swerving that occurred during and after the exchange of the wheel.

Arising in the dark to help Dad make gallons of ice cream for Central College United Presbyterian Church annual ice cream socials.

Finding out a particular use for a Phi Kappa Tau fraternity paddle after taking part in a stupid prank with potentially harmful consequences.

Helping to build the brick patio at our new house with Dad and his dad.

Helping to build the pole barn at our house and wondering why in the world we needed a barn.

Dad proudly driving his “new” tractor home to park in the barn (learning to drive and to be entrusted with the tractor became a rite of passage in the Lawrence household).

Dad plowing and disking a vacant lot to create a baseball field on which the neighborhood kids could play.

Being pulled behind the car on saucers and sleds on snow-covered neighborhood streets.

Searching hours for Easter baskets that Dad had hidden (often in that barn).

Drives to Lake Erie to catch the ferry to Middle Bass Island and watching Dad’s 4th of July firework shows there.

The visit with my buddies to the Air Force Museum at Wright-Patterson AFB (where I would later receive my AF commission).

Dad driving us on school day mornings from Lake of the Woods down Sunbury and Nelson Roads to reach the old Academy in Bexley.

Long car rides (or so it seemed) to see the Academy Vikings play schools such as Newark Catholic, West Jefferson, and New Albany.

Being given the keys to Dad’s big Oldsmobile Toronado so I could drive to basketball practices at the Academy while the family went on a ski trip over Christmas break (The problem was that I was not yet licensed to drive, there was a terrible snow storm in Columbus, and the car’s alternator slowly died over the next 5 days, creating great stress for me).

Seeing Dad at my games when I played on Academy teams.

Dad joining our neighborhood basketball games at the neighbor’s full court next door, shooting funny-looking, one-handed set shots that usually swished through the net, and then returning to whatever house or yard project he had going with a shrug and the words “nothin’ to this game”, leaving behind a bunch of wide-eyed teenagers who thought they were hot stuff on the court.

Being asked to join Dad and his buddies (all of whom are here today) for doubles tennis matches. That was special to me.

I remember our visits to colleges in Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana.

I remember Dad being overcome by his emotions when he delivered me to Miami University to start my freshman year (Hard for an OU man to swallow, I guess).

I remember a man who stood up and said “No” when asked to support keeping a black family out of the neighborhood.

I remember a father who had been separated from his son for 15 years over each man’s principles and pride (2 very strong Lawrence traits), and then greeting that son with a big bear hug and lots of tears when he returned home on Father’s Day 2008.

I will remember a man who showed his inner strength, courage, dignity, and love for his family in the face of the ultimate trial in life.

It has been written that a father is the strength to lean on, wisdom to learn from, and an example to live by. Dad was all of these things to his children and to many others. And I look forward to being greeted by his strong embrace when we meet once again.

I love you, Dad.

Kelly Moody

January 11, 2009

Dear Mary Lou and family,
I was very saddened to hear of Larry's unexpected passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I remember him as a fine gentleman, husband, and father who was so justifiably proud of all of you. His warm, ready smile and kind words brightened any gathering. The world is indeed a better place for his having passed our way.
Please accept my sincerest sympathies,
Kelly S. Moody

Marcel Daneault Sr. & Jr.

January 10, 2009

To the Lawrence Family

Larry came to my office and introduced himself in 1962. He was a good friend and thorough technician. I don't recall any dissatisfied case referred. We include you in our prayers.

Cam Taylor

January 10, 2009

Dear Mary Lou, Lindsey, Rodd, Pat and Scott:
Because of the current ice storm today we are unable to attend the calling hours and service. Our prayers and thoughts go out to all the family. We remember the great times we all enjoyed in the Lake-of-the-Woods at the pool parties, Halloween hay rides and haunted house and sailing. With many thoughts and deepest sympathy to you and all your family at this time. God Bess!
Joyce and Cam Taylor, Frank, Virginia and Kathy

Billy Evans

January 10, 2009

All of the Lawrence Family,
On behalf of the Middle Bass Barbershoppers, You are in our prayers. We will deeply miss Larry and his bright and shining smile. Although he was always in the backround, you could count on things running very smoothly when all the Barbershoppers showed up at the cookshack. Larry will be truly missed

Richard "Cat" Lemons

January 10, 2009

To the Lawarence Family:
In high school, Larry was indeed the hardest working quarterback in our league; and it is obvious he carried this industry and dedication forward in life. Whitehouse/Anthony Wayne football was better as a result of his contributions. You are in my prayers.

Becky Jacobs

January 9, 2009

To the Lawrence family:
I send my love and prayers to all of you at this time.
Former Whitehouse resident and friend of Dorothy, Becky Potter Jacobs

Yvonne Walters

January 9, 2009

Mary Lou~
Dorothy and I have been best friends since were six. I'm sure we were pests to Larry and Wendell, but they were always tolerant of us. We were still in high school when Larry arranged for us to visit OU at Homecoming and watch him play. What a thrill. Many good early Lawrence memories here in Whitehouse.

duke/Wanda Heller

January 9, 2009

Mary Lou,
Wanda and I are on vacation but we wanted to tell you how sorry we were for your loss. Wanda talked about bowling with you and I remember great talks with Larry over the years. Praying for you. duke/wanda heller

Sandra Imertreijs

January 8, 2009

Marilou and family - I was shocked and saddened to read Larry's death notice in the obits on Sunday. He was a wonderful, kind hearted gentleman who loved his life. I had the opportunity to see him this past summer picking up Rob's little son from his baseball game. Such a tremendous loss for all of you. May God bless you with peace and the remembrance of so many wonderful memories with your husband, father and grandfather. Please call me sometime. Sandy Imertreijs

Margie Taylor

January 8, 2009

Dear Mary Lou, Lindsay, Rodd, Pat and Scott,

Remembering Larry brings a smile to my face and sadness to my heart. I worked for Larry on two different occassions and learned much from his guidance. I have never had a better or more loyal friend. My world was a better place because he was in it. I will miss him very much. May God give you all peace at this difficult time. My love to all of you. Margie Taylor

Michael Burke

January 7, 2009

Dear Lawrence family -

We were saddened to hear of Dr. Lawrence's death from my parents a few days ago. He was certainly a wonderful and generous man who will truly be missed by all who knew him. We will be thinking of and praying for you all at this difficult time. Take care of yourselves as well.

Fondly, Michael Burke and family

Dan Goldberg

January 6, 2009

My sincerest condolences to you and your family. I knew Larry professionally and as a freind. We played many softball games together and shared sports stories. He will be missed.

Vicki Husk (Sherman)

January 6, 2009

Lawrence Family:

It was through my mother that I first met Dr. Lawrence. She worked for him for almost 30 years. During that time he became my orthodontist and I remember his dry sense of humor, kindness, and gentleness. My heart goes out to you. He will be missed by many.

Monica Oden

January 6, 2009

Your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I owe Dr. Lawrence many thanks for the wonderful job he did on my mouth many years ago. I owe my great smile to him.

Dr. Dominic & Chris Del Bene

January 5, 2009

Dear Mary Lou and family, We are saddened hearing of Larry's death. We will be talking to you this week.
Dom and Chris Del Bene

Esther G. Schwartz

January 5, 2009

Dear family of Dr. Larry Lawrence:
I only knew Dr. Lawrence through his orthodontist's office. Three of my children had his services during the
1960's. He not only was an excellent dentist, but one of the most totally kind, nice, and charismatic people I have ever met.
Dr. Lawrence will never be forgotten by anyone who ever met him. My deepest sympathy to all the family and myriad friends.

KERI TYLER

January 5, 2009

I WENT TO DR. LAWRENCE FOR BRACES WHEN I WAS IN SIXTH GRADE. I WAS SO SCARED AND SOMEHOW HE ALWAYS MADE ME FEEL COMFORTABLE. I AM 32 YEARS OLD NOW AND I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW GREAT HE MADE OUR ORTHODONTIST APPOINTMENTS. HIS FAMILY IS IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS.

Dee Sherman

January 5, 2009

Dear MaryLou and Family.....

I join your many friends in sadness and grief at this most difficult time. Not only was Larry my boss for 28 years, he was also my mentor and friend.
He was a person of great integrity and fairness. He helped so many people in a vey humble way. He, indeed, made everything better. I feel most grateful to have been a
part of his life and to get to know his wonderful family.
I will miss him for all time. May G-d
bless you.

Dee Sherman

John Wuorinen

January 5, 2009

Dear Rodd and Linda,
Your dad was a great man. The Wuorinens are thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.

kyle katz

January 5, 2009

Rodd and Linda:

I want to share my condolences on your father's passing. He was always great to me and I enjoyed my visits to his office and the time he took to always have a kind word.

Sincerely,

Kyle Katz

Kimberley Crouch

January 5, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers go to your family. I remember sitting on the front porch,and watching Larry, and Peanut butter & Jelly Bean walking down the street,and playing. I will always Remember Larry as a Special person in our lives. Kimberly Crouch (Cullins).

Lori Conkle

January 5, 2009

To The Lawrence Family, Dr Lawrence was my orthodontist and one of my sons orthodontists. He was an admirable man and I feel blessed to have had him in my life. I remember the day I took my son in his office for an evaluation. I said Dr. Lawrence you used to be my orthodontist 30 years ago...he laughed and said "You are telling our age!" he was very pleasant to be around and I will never forget him. may the love and support of family and friends, help you through this very difficult time.

Sue Topolosky

January 5, 2009

To the Family.. I worked for L2 for five years back in the 70'S. He taught me more about how to be a better person and to enjoy what I did. He was a gifted man and will be missed.. Sue Topolosky

Linda Goodwin

January 4, 2009

To Mrs. Larry Lawrence & Family,

My condolences to all of you. He touched so many. I was a patient of Dr. Lawrence in the late 1960's, a time when other children called me the buck-faced beaver. I am forever indebted to my parents for taking me to Dr. Lawrence. He fixed my teeth, giving me a "Farah Fawcett" smile. It was his excellent work and craftsmanship that allowed me to have a successful modeling career. As years passed, I had twin daughters and returned to him to have their teeth aligned. He gave both my daughters beautiful smiles. Now, every time I look at their gorgeous smiles, I will fondly remember Dr. Larry Lawrence, the orthodontist that made all of our smiles picture perfect.

Jeanann hughes

January 4, 2009

Dear Mary Lou, I was saddened to receive an e-mail from Sally Mann about Larry's death. Happy I did get to chat with you only a little over a week ago. I know how you will miss him. It is so nice to remember all the wonderful times we had together as young married ladies with our little boys. Love to you and your family. JeanAnn Hughes

James & Kristi Bingham

January 4, 2009

Mrs. Lawrence & Family -

Our heartfelt condolences are extended to each of you for your tremendous loss. We will always remember Dr. Lawrence as a great husband, father, and friend. We pray for your comfort and peace at this difficult time.

Hal Merz

January 4, 2009

Dear Lindsay and family: Sorry to hear about your dad; he made the world a better place. He must have enjoyed the retreat at Middle Bass Island.

Hal Merz (Lindsay's former coworker at Columbus State)

nadine block

January 4, 2009

Dear MaryLou,

My sincerest condolences to you and your family.

Nadine Block

Dick Snyder

January 4, 2009

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. Linda and I send our special thoughts and prayers to you at this difficult time.

Carl and Joyce Juergens

January 4, 2009

Larry truly was a special person, whose life really made things better for others. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
May God strengthen and comfort you.

Ann Marie and Martin Sears

January 4, 2009

Dear Lindsay and family, We are saddened by your loss. Your father was an impressive man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Love, Daddy and Ann Marie

Rick Harrison

January 4, 2009

MayLou and family please accept my heartfelt condolences on your loss. As the former alumni director at OU and former long-time advisor of Beta Chapter of Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity I was blessed to get to know Larry over the years. His dedication and loyalty to his Alma Mater and Fraternity was inspiring. Most of all I will remember his smile, friendly demeanor and genuine interest in others. "We'll Meet Again in Heaven Sure, In the Name of Phi Kappa Tau."

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