Larry Kent Small, 83, of West Dundee, died peacefully on November 28, 2020.
Larry was born on August 12, 1937 in Tipton, Indiana to parents Clifford and Janette (nee Hancock) Small. He had a sense of humor and quick wit. He was a great collector of friends; the “bridge group”, the “tennis group” and his “small groups” through his church, Willow Creek. He was a passionate jazz enthusiast and could often be found at Andy’s or The Jazz Showcase in Chicago. He loved his coffee and was always looking for another Starbucks to frequent; nationally and /or inter-nationally.
Larry was employed as the Science/Health Coordinator with Schaumburg School District 54 for 23 years. Prior to this, he was a Science teacher and Administrator at Washington Junior High in Aurora, Illinois. He was a firm believer in hands-on-learning and developed many elementary school lessons to help children understand Science. This led to a National Lifetime Achievement Award for Science Education Leadership.
Larry’s summers were spent in Mercer, Wisconsin at their Crystal Lake cabin where he continued to share his love of Science especially with the grandchildren, family and friends. Winter months were spent in Florida at Disney World Parks and the Siesta Key area, enjoying beach walks, sunsets, restaurants, ice cream, and more Jazz.
Larry is survived by his wife of 13 years, Linda (nee Perkins) Small, his children, Robert (Lisa) Small, David (Kim) Small, his daughter-in-law, Liz Small, his step sons, Kevin (Deb) Hanson, Shawn (Lori) Hanson, and Keith Hanson, his grandchildren, David, Jessica, Michael, Kailee, Zack, Megan, Graham, Cole, Josh, Zach, Christina, Mary, Erin, Olivia, Matthew, and Keith Michael, his great grandson, Silas, his sister, Karen Moeller, In-Laws, Jim, Judy, & Jean Law.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Linda (nee Law) Small, his son, Jeffrey Small, and his brother-in-law, Cliff Moeller.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Larry’s name can be made to: the Parkinson’s Foundation https://www.parkinson.org/ , Willow Creek Community Church https://www.willowcreek.org/ or WDCB Public Radio, 90.9 FM.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the Chapel of Willow Creek Community Church, 67 Algonquin Road, South Barrington, on August 14, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. with a visitation beginning at noon.
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Larry was a wonderful friend and neighbor. He was always kind, considerate and a true gentleman. He will be greatly missed.
Larry will always be in our hearts and memories, what a dear friend that always brightens the many times we had together.
Linda, I surely wish I was able to meet this remarkable man. May you feel God's loving presence and peace...
Linda, Bob, Dave & Liz: Larry was like a brother to us and we are so sorry for yours and also our loss.
Larry was a forever friend who entered our lives when he was a teacher for West Aurora District 129. We were part of a bridge group who grew very close as friends, This includes visiting him "up north" to going on a cruise in the Carribean as well as a trip to Hawaii! We shall miss his great personality, ability to laugh and even entertain us and above all his love of our God!
Linda, sympathy and love to you. You are in my thoughts. I pray God's grace, peace and love are yours.
Larry will always be in our hearts and memories, what a dear friend that always brightens the many times we had together.
I have fond memories of Larry and remember his passion for science and Starbucks (which I share both of!). He was a great man and will be missed. I am so sorry for your loss.
We got to know Larry about 10 years ago. He invited us to their small group and we’ve been friends ever since. Larry was funny, generous and kind. He would always slip in a joke no matter how serious things were. He was a great mentor. Rest In Peace Larry. We miss you!