Larry Robert Ferris

Larry Robert Ferris
Age 76 of Baltimore, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, August 31st 2024. Born September 25th, 1947 in Columbus, Larry was a true one of a kind. He had an unforgettable personality, was a master storyteller (sometimes fact, sometimes fiction, and some we will never know), and had an infectious laugh that would fill the room. He was a kind hearted man who loved his animals, taking in many a stray pet, and cared for many people; supporting them selflessly in a truly altruistic way. In his spare time Larry enjoyed fishing, basketball, racquetball, golfing and spending time with his extended family.
A Columbus native, Larry spent his formative years at various city schools, and attended Franklin Heights High School where he played on the basketball team. He attended his Franklin Heights reunions and often remarked about how he enjoyed spending time with his classmates later in life. Larry met his first wife, Gay (Hall) Ferris in 1967, and were married in 1968. The two built a home and settled in the Baltimore/Pickerington area. Larry and Gay had 3 children together: Brittney, Brandy and Brett. Larry met his wife Sandy (Schiffauer) Ferris in 1996, and married in 1998. They raised their daughter Kassy together in Pickerington. He took tremendous pride in coaching and cheering his kids in soccer, basketball and other activities. He shared his gift of mechanical inclination with untold amounts of crafts and projects spanning from doll cradles, to tree houses to computers to cars. He later shared these same passions with his many grandchildren.
Larry's professional career began at Ohio Bell as a draftsman, working in the world famous Bell Laboratories. Here he showcased his talents as an Engineer, working among people with multiple PhDs at an exciting time in technology when computers were in their infancy and telecommunications were exploding across the globe, changing commerce and connecting the world. Larry was proud of his accomplishments at Bell Labs, and often noted his business card which read "Larry Ferris, PE, NFE" (no formal education). A testament to his intellect that he was able to work with some of the brightest minds in the world with only a high school education. Later in his career Larry moved into management. Around this time he began his own HVAC business, running service calls in the evenings and weekends. Upon retirement from 30 years in the Bell System, Larry and his friend Bill Crites turned LRF Maintenance into a full time business. LRF grew to a successful, reliable and trustworthy company that served hundreds of customers across the greater Columbus area and employed dozens of employees over many years. A true jack of all trades, Larry knew how to build or fix just about anything, and spent countless hours helping friends and family to build and better their homes, cars, and anything else that needed attention.
Larry's true passion, as anyone who knew him will tell you, was his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes. Whether it be football, basketball, or any other OSU sport, Larry was a full tilt fan. He held spectacular tailgates and parties for OSU. Always the gracious host, with wonderful food spreads and seemingly unlimited beverages to quench any fan's thirst. One of the few times Larry was off his feet relaxing was to take in a Buckeye game. In this spirit, and per his wishes, Larry's celebration of life will be held at his home 12262 Roesta Lane, Baltimore OH, during the Ohio State vs Oregon game. All family, friends and colleagues are welcome to celebrate with us. Please RSVP to Sandy 614-989-1097 or facebook link.
www.facebook.com/share/wL1RNtKay6WKQ2f4/?mibextid=9l3rBW
Larry's early life had its challenges, with frequent moves from apartment to apartment, school to school, across different areas of the city. During these tough times, Larry would receive his clothing from the Charity Newsies. This experience greatly imparted his empathy throughout his life for those less fortunate. As he became successful and put himself in a position to give back, Larry could be seen every year putting multiple $100 bills into the collection boots of the Charity Newsies organization that supported him in his time of need. In this vein, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, please consider making a charitable donation to the Charity Newsies Organization.
Donation Form
Larry Ferris is survived by his wife Sandy Ferris, 1st wife, Gay Ferris; daughters Brittney Donley (Dave), Brandy Ferris (Chris), Kassy Ferris, and son Brett Ferris; Grandchildren Evelyn Donley, James Donley, Stella Whitham, Grace Donley, Anderson Whitham, and Carter Mosley. Sister Betty Ann Sullivan, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his Father Zelman, Mother Evelyn, Brother Scott, and beloved friend Jeff. He is loved by many and his memory will be cherished always.