Lawrence Trybul

Lawrence J. Trybul Jr., age 80, passed away on February 4, 2025, in Hines, Illinois. Born on December 26, 1944, in Melbourne, Florida, Lawrence-known to many as Larry-lived a life marked by dedication to family, service to his country, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life.

Larry attended Proviso West High School in Hillside, Illinois, and later earned his GED before enlisting in the United States Navy. From 1966 to 1969, he served aboard the USS Hunley in Charleston, South Carolina during the Vietnam Conflict. As a crane operator on a submarine tender, he played a vital role in supplying submarines with ordnance and general provisions. His service took him across the globe-from Scotland and Guam to ports throughout the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans-and included passage through the Panama Canal. He continued his commitment to service in the Naval Reserves from 1969 to 1971 in Bainbridge, Maryland. For his contributions, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal.

During his time in the Navy, Larry earned certification as a submarine tender crane operator. A skill that would serve him well throughout his working life. Upon returning to civilian employment, he became certified in forklift operations and continued to apply his mechanical aptitude with diligence and pride.

Larry's devotion to family was unwavering. He is survived by his beloved wife Patrice (née DeAngelo), his mother Lorraine Trybul, and siblings Alan (Vickie) Trybul Sr., Theresa (Henry) Benbenek, Janet (Brian) Moore, Diane Correa, Margaret (Wayne) Schmitt, and Duke (Irene) Trybul. He was a cherished uncle to twenty nieces and nephews and a great-uncle to many more. He was preceded in death by his father Lawrence J. Trybul Sr.; sisters Dorothy Trybul and Lois Gigele; brother-in-law Junior Correa; and mother-in-law Genevieve (née Sopher) DeAngelo.

Larry's presence was a constant source of support and joy for those around him. He helped care for his parents from a young man throughout his entire life and was always ready to lend a hand-whether it was teaching his siblings how to drive or ensuring there were gifts under the tree at Christmas. He had a knack for making birthdays special and was always available for a heartfelt conversation or a helping hand.

In his later years, Larry found joy in spending time with his nieces and nephews-often agreeing to babysit in exchange for spaghetti dinners. He enjoyed outings to the movies, bowling alleys, roller rinks, or simply walking by the lake. A skilled handyman, he was always willing to help fix things around the house.

Larry had a zest for life that shone through his hobbies. An avid fisherman, he relished trips to Wisconsin or local fishing holes with family-especially alongside his father. Bowling was another passion; he participated in numerous leagues over the years both solo and with loved ones. He appreciated cinema deeply-particularly outdoor theaters-and counted films like *Jaws*, *Planet of the Apes*, and *Star Wars* among his favorites.

He also enjoyed biking, puzzle books, chess games, and relaxing at home. A lifelong enthusiast of video games-from Atari's ping-pong days through modern consoles-he never lost touch with his playful side. Wherever there was a pinball machine nearby, Larry could be found enjoying its challenge. Known affectionately as "the candy man,". He appreciated and cared for animals of all kinds. He always seemed to have a pen ready when someone needed one.

Larry's spirituality remained personal but steadfast throughout his life-a quiet strength that guided him through both calm waters and stormy seas.

A memorial gathering will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, located at 20954 W. Hoff Rd., Elwood, Illinois 60421. Attendees are kindly asked to arrive fifteen minutes early.

We can only hope that we gave Larry as many wonderful memories as he gave us. His legacy lives on in every shared story, every lesson passed down, and every moment made brighter by his presence. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.