Lawrence LeClare Searles

Lawrence LeClare Searles, age 69, passed away on October 22, 2025. He was born on August 29, 1956 in Indianapolis, Indiana to the late Lawrence L. Searles and Rita (Sherman) Searles. Larry graduated from Avon High School in 1974 and then attended the University of Wyoming where he played football. He later transferred to Indiana State University and received his Bachelor's Degree in 1983. Larry also played football for the Indianapolis Capitols, a Midwest Football league which ran from 1968 to 1979, and an Indianapolis based semi-pro football team called the Indianapolis Bears which played in the National Developmental Football League. Larry worked 25 years with the Indiana Department of Corrections as a Recreation Leader, Unit Team Manager, Counselor, and Administrator. He was a life long outdoorsman and loved nature and the mountains. Larry was an avid sports fan who enjoyed following all sports including his Wyoming Cowboys and Green Bay Packers with his daughter, CJ; and he especially enjoyed watching his two daughters and grandson, Kaden, play sports. Larry shared a love of books and vintage antiques with his daughter, Kelsey; and he shared his immense love of music with both daughters. His grandchildren Kaden, Willow and Jude were the light in his heart. Larry was a gentle giant who knew no strangers. He treasured family and friends and he made everyone he knew feel seen, valued and appreciated. Above all, Larry loved being with his family and traveling with his wife, who was his college sweetheart and the love of his life for 46 years. Their adventures were countless and their laughter and love immeasurable. Larry is preceded in death by a grandson, Jude Lawrence Vickrey; and long time friend, William Dawson. A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, December 5th, 2025 from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm at Washington Park Pavilion Center (115 S. County Road 575, Avon, Indiana 46123.) Survivors include his loving wife, Linda (Human) Searles; daughters, Cassidy Troyer and Kelsey (Trenton) Vickrey; brother, Mark Searles; sisters, Katy (Phil) Zeidner, Judi Cottrell, Jan Swarbrick and Beth Hall; 2 grandchildren, Kaden Stutsman and Willow Troyer; several dear nieces and nephews.