Lawrence "Larry" Walsh, 94, of Oak Brook passed away peacefully at his home Dec. 22, 2024.
Larry was an honorable man who lived life fully. He attended Fenwick High School and graduated from Purdue University in 1955. He continued to be one of the biggest Boilermaker fans around. He was a decorated Korean War veteran earning the Bronze Star, and he remained a proud veteran.
Larry was president of Midland Pipe and Supply, which was founded by his father in 1924. Both he and his brother grew the company out of the Great Depression era to be a leader in utility and power construction. He was highly respected in the pipe and supply industry and was at the forefront of computer utilization in business, as well as valve automation. He remained actively involved in the industry by volunteering in numerous trade associations.
Larry was a man of humor, wit and wisdom, making all those around him laugh, even in his final days of life. He felt blessed to call Grand Beach, Mich., his home. He was an active parishioner at Notre Dame Catholic Church for 30 years. He also was actively involved at Long Beach Country Club and Butterfield Country Club, which provided much joy for him and his entire family.
Larry was a true athlete but never boasted of his accomplishments. He ran two marathons beginning at the age of 60 and competed in 15 triathlons. If he wasn't running, biking or swimming, you could find him either on the golf course or on the slopes skiing.
Larry will be remembered as a man of faith and dedication to his family, especially to his wife, Marge, and his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Margaret Whalen Walsh; his children, Larry (Cathy) Walsh Jr., Susie (Terry) Shea of Hinsdale, Stephen Walsh, Michael Walsh, Nancy (Barry) Ketchmark, and Amy (Phil) Lacey; his 14 grandchildren; and his two great-grandchildren.
A funeral Mass was said Dec. 28 at St. Isaac Jogues Church in Hinsdale. Interment was at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made online to Misericordia at http://www.misericordia.com.
Sullivan Funeral Home in Hinsdale made the arrangements.
