LAWRENCE (LARRY) GRZEBENIAK

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LAWRENCE (LARRY) GRZEBENIAK

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Lawrence "Larry" Grzebeniak on November 10, 2024, at the age of 91.

Beloved husband of Liz (nee Mirosh) for 61 years, Larry leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and resilience. Cherished father to Wendy (Clark) Myers, Tammy (Rob) Kiliwnik, and Barry (Karey Feere) Grzebeniak, and a proud grandfather to Josh (Klarissa), Zach (Libby), Emily (Ryland), Ariel, Serena (Chad), and Cayden. Larry's presence was a constant source of pride and encouragement in his family's lives. Larry is also survived by his sister Evelyn, brother Ken and numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, Stan and Nellie and his brother Ron.

Larry was born on February 25, 1933, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. His parents relocated to Morweena, Manitoba, after his birth where he spent his early years surrounded by a close-knit extended family. Raised in a rustic home with a dirt floor, he learned resilience and responsibility early in life. At the age of nine, his family moved to Winnipeg, where Larry's father instilled in him a strong work ethic. By his teenage years, Larry worked tirelessly taking on a paper route, delivering magazines, hauling pails of coal to the basement and mowing lawns. He briefly played lacrosse as a goalie and his youngest grandson has proudly carried on that tradition. Hobbies and sports were frowned upon by his father but in his later years Larry enjoyed paint-by-numbers, bowling at Roxy Lanes, playing pool and collecting model trains. At 15, Larry's father arranged for Larry to join the workforce at CN, that was the beginning of a career that would span nearly 45 years. Starting out as a Coach Cleaner and retiring in 1992 as a Carman, Larry was known for his dedication, hard work and integrity.

In 1958, Larry met the love of his life, Liz, at a dance. They married on November 9, 1963, and began their lifelong journey together with a honeymoon road trip to Dallas. The following year they travelled with close friends to Florida where they took a cruise to Nassau, Bahamas. In the years to come Larry and Liz travelled to Expo '67 in Montreal and to Prince George, BC by way of Calgary. Over the years, Larry and Liz shared their love of trips and camping adventures with their children creating cherished family memories at destinations like Prince Albert, Merrimac, Chicago, South Dakota, Rushing River, Hecla, Morden Corn & Apple and Bemidji. Later many, many wonderful years were spent together at the family cottage at Lester Beach.

Larry's love for dogs also brought him lifelong companionship - from Spuddy, his loyal childhood companion, to Brindle, his post-retirement best friend, and Stella, who was a comforting presence in recent years. Larry had a soft spot for his furry grandkids. There was always plenty of head patting, chin scratching and endless treats for the little furry faces staring up at him.

Larry's life was defined by hard work, deep family loyalty, and the joy he found in simple pleasures like family gatherings and visits. He took great pride in the achievements of his children and grandchildren, cherishing each visit and family dinner. Larry could always be found on the sidelines, in a rink, or in the audience at his grandchildren's sporting events, school concerts, performances or graduations from kindergarten to high school. He was their biggest fan.

In his final year, Larry bravely faced Lewy Body Dementia, surrounded by the unwavering support of his family. Even as the illness took him from his family in many ways, he never stopped expressing his love. Until the end, he responded with "I Love you too", a lasting reminder of the deep love he shared with his family. His profound presence will be missed in each of our lives.

We would like to thank Dr. Peter Kuegle for his care of Larry over the last number of years. We would also like to thank the staff of Concordia Hospital 3W who helped us keep Larry comfortable at the end. We appreciate the care and compassion you showed our family during the long days, and also the nights that Tammy stayed.

Larry disliked being the center of attention, to honour his wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. Cremation has taken place and a private interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make a donation in his memory to a charity of their choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 16, 2024, Nov 16, 2024