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.
For further information please call the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com
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