Larry L. Espy

Larry L. Espy, 87, of Rockford, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather passed away at home on April 3, 2024, surrounded by his family. Larry was born in Centerville, Iowa, on December 7, 1936, the oldest of seven children to Delmar and Ione (McDaniel) Espy. Larry led a remarkable life full of love, dedication, and service. He served in the Air Force from 1955 through 1959. During his service, Larry traveled the world, trained military dogs, and served as a military police officer. Larry's career journey was one filled with hard work and commitment. He married the love of his life, Charlotte Dawsey on February 29, 1960. He dedicated years of his life to various companies such as Elco Tool., Arskay Fastener a division of Acme Screw, Textron Camcar, and finally Sinnissippi Golf Course where he enjoyed 21 years of making memories. His dedication and passion were evident in every task he undertook. He had a profound love for golf, which not only brought him joy but also helped him forge numerous friendships during his time working at Sinnissippi. Additionally, Larry cherished his weekly card group gatherings and lifelong passion for honing his skills at poker. Among all his achievements, Larry held his time spent with his grandkids as the dearest to his heart. As a loving father who dedicated much of his time to work, he considered the opportunity to spend quality time with his family through his grandkids as a second chance at building cherished memories.
 
He will be missed by those who loved him most, his wife of 64 years, Charlotte “Char”; his children Brenda (John) Haws-Lutz and Debra Espy; his grandchildren Kim Haws II (Katie), Kyle Haws, Charlotte (Darin) Haws, Zachary Haws, Lisa (Brian) Roderick and Andrew Brunner; his great grandchildren TJ, Emerson, Mason, Nova, Casey, Dominic, Alex, and bonus great granddaughter Adalyn; his sister in law Robin Bolte and her children Sarah (Eric), Meghan, and Robert (Cori) Jr.; numerous nieces and nephews. Larry is predeceased by his parents; his son-in-law Kim Haws; his brothers Lad, Lanny, Ed, John and Randy; his sister Annie Johnson and his brother-in-law Robert Bolte Sr.

A visitation will take place on Friday, April 12, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of memorial service, 11:00 a.m. at Firstborn Ministries, 8213 N Alpine Road, Loves Park, Illinois 61115. Following the service there will be military honors and a time for fellowship in the parish hall. Cremation Rites were accorded with Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to be established at a later date. A very special thank you to Heartland Hospice for all of the care and compassion they showed to Larry and the family. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.