Lawrence Otis Whaples

Lawrence Otis Whaples, 83, passed away in Rockford, Illinois on October 9, 2025. He was born on December 1, 1941 in Kewanee, Illinois, son to Bruce Robert and Laura (Peterson) Whaples. Larry went on to join the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, and was honorably discharged in 1965. A proud veteran, he carried the values of service, discipline, and dedication throughout his life.

In Iowa, Larry met Georgia Bartling and they wed in the Quad Cities on September 15, 1984. For more than four decades, he and Georgia shared a lifetime of partnership — a love found in the day to day moments, laughter, hard work, and standing by each other through every season of life.

He spent most of his working career as a salesman, and his family and friends joked that he could sell ice to an eskimo if he wanted. He used those talents, along with his love for woodworking, to go to many craft shows to showcase and sell his best pieces. Whether he was renovating the house or crafting something in his workshop, he could almost always be found with a tool or paintbrush in his hands.

He took pride in raising his family in faith, serving as an usher at Alpine Lutheran Church for many years. His favorite verse, Psalm 23 — “The Lord is my shepherd”, reflected the trust and steadiness he carried into every part of his life.

Larry also enjoyed sports, he spent many years in the Park Lanes Bowling League, and cheering on the Chicago Cubs, Marquette’s Golden Eagles, the Fighting Illini, and the Denver Bronco’s, to name a few.

He will be missed by those who loved him most, his wife Georgia; their children Robert (Jamie) Whaples and Katie (Nick) Elder; grandchildren Trent, Shaun, and Blake Elder; Larry’s daughter, Kim (Tony) Reed, and his granddaughter Ellie; he is also survived by his favorite Daisy Mae, the family beagle. He is predeceased by his parents, and his sister.

His legacy of faith, family, hard work, and love of the Cubs will live on with his family and will be how those who knew him will always remember him.

Cremation rites were accorded to Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108. A time to gather and celebrate Larry’s life will take place at a later date. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com