Submitted by: Dan Rich

Lawrence A. Cripe

Aug. 3, 1924 - Jan. 24, 2005

South Bend Tribune 1/25/2005

Lawrence A. Cripe, 80, of Walnut Road in Walkerton, passed away the morning of Monday, January 24, at Miller's Merry Manor in Walkerton, Indiana, following an extended illness.

Larry was born on August 3, 1924, to Ray and Florence (McAllister) Cripe and was raised in Walkerton, graduating from Walkerton High School. He moved to Chicago where he married his sweetheart, Lorayne Wahlgren in 1943, and served in the Navy during World War II. He continued his education and received his degree with honors. Larry retired from Illinois Bell so he could devote all of his time to his dream, Larry's Nursery, based in Walkerton. His son, Kevin, continues his dream as owner and operator of the nursery.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and brothers, Joe, Robert and Richard, and sister, Louise. Larry is survived by his loving wife, Lorayne; sister, Mary; daughters, Sandra (David) Williams and Pamela (Steven) Westerdahl; and son, Kevin (Jill) Cripe. Larry will also be missed by his five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Cremation will take place and a memorial for immediate family will be held at a later date.