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LARRY NICHOLAS LICHARSON Obituary pic LARRY NICHOLAS LICHARSON Obituary pic

LARRY NICHOLAS LICHARSON

Born: Apr 15, 1949

Date of Passing: Aug 30, 2017

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LARRY NICHOLAS LICHARSON April 15, 1949 - August 30, 2017 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Larry Licharson. Early on the morning of August 30, lovingly surrounded by his wife and children, he died peacefully in his sleep. A brief illness cut his life far too short at only 68 years. Though his time was brief, he made a considerable impact on those whom he knew, and the city of Winnipeg. Larry was the second son born to a Greek immigrant father and Ukrainian mother. Growing up in Winnipeg's West End, he attended Gordon Bell High School and later the University of Manitoba. It was during his youth and young adulthood that his personal character developed into a man who was gregarious, compassionate, and dedicated; all traits he used in exemplary ways throughout his life. His natural ability to connect with those around him led him to pursue a degree in commerce, eventually starting his own recruitment advertising firm, HR Adworks LTD. He was a prominent figure not only in the business community, but also as a dedicated political and charitable fixture on the boards of various organizations. Larry served in multiple capacities while contributing to policy in the City of Winnipeg and the Province of Manitoba. He served as Chair of the Board of the Winnipeg Aids Shelter Foundation, Manitoba Theatre for Young People, and Big Brothers of Winnipeg. He served on the boards of Oak Hammock Marsh, Ducks Unlimited, the Women's Employment Counselling Service, the Immigrant Women's Employment Counselling Service, the Winnipeg Police Board, and the Winnipeg chapter of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association. It was in 1989, during his tenure with Big Brothers that he met Catherine Cronin in an elevator on his way to a meeting. She herself was early to the same meeting, as she served on the board of Big Sisters. Two years later they were married in St. John Brebeuf Church, and they built a brief but indelibly meaningful life together. Through their 26 year marriage they raised three children, Thomas Andrew Patrick, Mary Margaret Olivia, and Michael August Theodore; as well as two dogs and one cat. From coaching t-ball practice to watching Christmas concerts, to cheering their sports teams to seeing them graduate, Larry was always his kids' biggest fan. There was never a deficit of love or pride in the home they shared, as Larry and Cathie raised their children to strive to live as the best reflections of their parents. As they grew older, so too did each of their relationships with him, gaining perspective on the world and an understanding of Larry outside of fatherhood; truly becoming friends as adults. Larry made a lasting impression on those he met, counting everyone as friends. He offered sage advice from his knowledge of the world and his life; never controlling, always wanting the best for those around him. He showed love through this generosity of spirit, helping others objectively and indiscriminately. There was little he enjoyed more than a weekend at the cottage on the shores of Lake Winnipeg, surrounded by his family, his friends, a good CD, a glass of Jameson's, and a cigar. Sharing stories with Larry inevitably ended in a peal of his full-bodied, genuine laughter, which was always contagious. His smile never dimmed in the presence of those whom he loved, and it will always remain alight in the hearts and memories of those who loved him. Though his time with us was far too short, his impact will be felt for years to come. Larry was predeceased by his father John D. Licharson, mother Mary Espersen (nee Shott), stepfather John Espersen, and brother-in-law Kevin Cronin. He is survived by his wife Cathie and his children, Tom, Maggie, and Mike; his brother John (Elna), and stepsister Lori Espersen; nephews Daniel and Loris (Shawna); as well as his great-nieces Shannon and Clio, and great-nephew Jakob. He leaves his aunt and godmother Ollie Litkowitch and aunt Louise Shott, as well as many cousins throughout the province, country, and the United States, all much loved. A funeral service will be held at St. John Brebeuf Church, 1707 John Brebeuf Place, on Tuesday, September 5 at 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Winnipeg or the St. Paul's College Foundation.
Publish Date: Sep 2, 2017

LARRY NICHOLAS LICHARSON April 15, 1949 - August 30, 2017 Funeral arrangements pending. Full obituary to follow this Saturday.
Publish Date: Sep 1, 2017

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 02, 2017

Condolences & Memories (23 entries)

  • I was a school chum of his brother Johnny and happily got to know Larry in my trips back to Winnipeg from my home in France. I was impressed by his sunny outlook to life. All my condolences to the family - Posted by: Brian STAVECHNY (Friend) on: Sep 18, 2017

  • Dear Cathie and Family...my condolscences with the loss of your great husband and friend to many of us that had a terrific friendship with Larry...So sorry and he will be missed by all of us from Bb/BS who he continued to be great friends with! - Posted by: Gerald Mirecki (Friend...from our great time with Big Brothers/Sisters) on: Sep 07, 2017

  • Dear Cathie & Family Please accept my deepest condolensces. I met Larry at the U. of M. back in the late 60's when we both joined our fraternity. Instantly, I recognized that "Lich" was a friendly, kind man with a huge personality. More importantly, It was obvious to me that he had a heart of gold. I left Winnipeg in 1974 and had only reconnected with Larry sporatically at fraternity reunions since then. Despite the small amount of time we spent together, Larry's passing is so sad and disheartening to me. Please know that my thoughts are with you and that I'm in your corner during this difficult time. R.I.P "Lich". Tim Dennehy - Posted by: Tim Dennehy (Calgary) (Phi Delta Theta Fraternity Brother) on: Sep 07, 2017

  • Cathie, I am so very saddened to hear of Larry's passing; the sweet story of how the two of you met is a story I often tell along side our other successful 'match' stories! Sincerest condolences from all of us at BBBS. - Posted by: Suzanne Neilson (Big Brothers Big Sisters of Winnipeg) on: Sep 06, 2017

  • We are very sorry to hear of Larry's passing. He was a great neighbour and friend. We will miss our drive way chats and him honking as he drove by. Our condolences to Kathy, Tom, Maggie, and Mike. May all your memories help you through this difficult time. Take care Barb and Dale - Posted by: Dale and Barb Tallas (Neighbor) on: Sep 05, 2017

  • My deepest condolences to the family in the passing of Larry. Larry and I go back as far as Scouts and High School and more lately the Refit Centre. He was a terrific person and will be missed. - Posted by: Gordon Savage (Friend) on: Sep 05, 2017

  • When a new job didn't materialize, and I had no office, Larry and Gord gave me space at CHRC at no charge. I was a tenant with CHRC then HRA for 12 years. (Eventually I had to initiate actually paying rent for my space.) It was a generous gesture that I greatly appreciated. HRA was a great environment for me. Larry liked a family vibe in the office. He/they treated me like one of their own. Larry and Cathie hosted many wonderful Christmas parties. We had pizza Fridays, a BBQ on the roof. I remember once when he was away, the staff literally moved his office. I also worked for Larry for two years. We had a great team, and did a lot of great work without a lot of friction. Thanks Lar, you helped write some happy chapters in my life. - Posted by: Dan O'Dell (friend. landlord, employer) on: Sep 05, 2017

  • I've worked at 280 Smith for the last 10 years and was very saddened to hear of Larry's passing. He was such a nice man who always greeted folks with a big smile and a friendly "Hello." I will miss him. My condolences to his family. - Posted by: Janice Sawers () on: Sep 05, 2017

  • Larry was a kind and friendly man. I met him shortly after I moved here from Chicago in 2001. He was a loving husband and father and a very active member of our community. He will be sorely missed by his neighbors and friends. We have lost a good man. I shall miss him. - Posted by: Gary Cornelius (Neighbor and Friend) on: Sep 04, 2017

  • We extend our deepest sympathy to Cathie and family on Larry’s passing. While our paths have not crossed in recent years we will always remember the fireworks/BBQ extravaganza that Larry and Cathie hosted on Victoria Day weekends almost 20 years ago to celebrate the start of beach season. Larry’s excitement and sense of community was infectious to all who attended. He will be dearly missed by his friends and neighbors in Dunnottar. - Posted by: Bud & Linda Foster () on: Sep 04, 2017

  • Larry was a very dear neighbour of mine. He was always friendly and most eager to chat about his life and mine. I will truly miss his presence across the street. He would want me to help his family whenever they ask, and I will be pleased to. So long Larry, you were a great neighbour. - Posted by: George Ames (Neighbour) on: Sep 04, 2017

  • It is with great sadness to hear of Brother Larry's passing. His dedication and friendship over the years for the American Hellenic Educational and Progressive Association (AHEPA) Family exemplified the goals of the Order and contributed to Hellenism; following in the footsteps of his father John (who served as chapter president). Larry's jovial and wise manner imparted on whomever he met will be greatly missed. Our deepest condolences and prayers go out to the family. May his memory be eternal. William Constan Secretary Order of AHEPA Polikos Aster Chapter CJ8 Winnipeg - Posted by: William Constan, Secretary, Order of AHEPA (Friend) on: Sep 04, 2017

  • Family leader and sage. Larry always made time for family, his immediate family was his primary concern which was truly evident by the way his children interacted with their father, and Cathy. Although involved in so many activities there was always time to talk, listen and share family history with everyone. The Lunch Cousins will truly miss the leader/organizer of our cousins lunch. We met at his call at a restaurant to enjoy a meal together and share our time with each other. We all truly enjoyed spending time together We love you Larry, Cathy and kids we are truly sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Stephen Sumka (Family - Cousin) on: Sep 03, 2017

  • Cathie, Tom, Maggie, Mike and Family Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May your memories bring you comfort at this difficult time. We will remember Larry as a special person who was caring, kind, generous, compassionate and he treated everyone with dignity and respect. We enjoyed our visits and times when we would meet with you as a family. We will miss him. Take care Wayne & Vicky - Posted by: Wayne & Vicky Shott (Cousin) on: Sep 02, 2017

  • This one really, really hurts. Larry and I did business together for over 30 years starting around 1986. He always wore a big smile and had a quip to make you laugh and brighten your day. Larry was foundational in helping me set up my own firm back in 2000. He gave me great entrepreneurial advice and counsel over the early years of getting my business established. Larry even went so far as to find our first downtown office location for the business as we expanded. We just lost a great person. To his wife, Cathy and family, my deepest condolences. John McFerran -Vancouver. - Posted by: John McFerran (friend) on: Sep 02, 2017

  • We did not know Larry well but always felt like a friend when we would meet him. Our deepest Condolences To Cathy and the kids. Cherish the Memories - Posted by: Susan & Rick Gill (Friend) on: Sep 02, 2017

  • Cathie & family, Very sorry to hear about Larry's passing. I certainly remember his hearty laugh and great sense of humour as well as the good conversations we had about vintage cars. - Posted by: jean caron () on: Sep 02, 2017

  • When I met Larry at the Phi Delt house during our first year at University, little did I know we would be life time friends. There was no better person to grab for nine holes of golf or to sit with at some event. Larry always provided me some special energy, political advice, an economic update and of course a clear memory of many University antics. I will always remember our shared companionship. Nick Logan - Posted by: Nick Logan (Long time friend) on: Sep 02, 2017

  • Sorry to hear of Larry's passing. Please accept our sincere sympathy at this time. Larry was a true gentleman, he will be missed by us and many others. Dale and Fonda - Posted by: Dale Smeltz (Friend) on: Sep 01, 2017

  • Larry was a great Winnipegger and Manitoban. He cared about making our city and province a better place for us all to live. He will be missed. Our deepest sympathies to Cathy and family. - Posted by: Buzz & Genevieve Grant (Friends) on: Sep 01, 2017

  • Extremely sad to hear of Larry's passing. Larry was a kind and compassionate man who always put others before himself. We are blessed to have had him in our lives. Our prayers and thoughts go out to Cathie and the kids at this time. - Posted by: David and Christina Tompkins (Friend ) on: Sep 01, 2017

  • I just heard of Larry's passing. I am so very sad. Larry took me under his wing, very early on in my HR career and always gave me thoughtful insights to people, business, and life. He always made an effort to stay in touch and continued to be a mentor for my career. Larry was a very special individual - compassionate, caring and could light up a room with his laughter and joy. He will be missed. My sincere condolences to his family. - Posted by: MaryAnn Kempe (friend) on: Sep 01, 2017

  • Larry was a wonderful man and a dear friend. Whenever I saw him I was greeted with a warm smile and wonderful enthusiasm. He helped me when I needed him years ago and I am forever grateful for that. Our lives intersected regularly throughout the years and we always had many common interests to discuss. I will miss him and regret that I did not get the chance to express my love for him before he died but I think he knew. I offer my most sincere condolences to Cathy and his entire family. We have lost an outstanding person and a great citizen. Gregg Hanson - Posted by: Gregg Hanson (Friend) on: Sep 01, 2017

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