Larry LeRoy Tomsic's Obituary
Childhood, Chicago-Style
Larry Tomsic was born in Denver, Colorado to Louis Paul and Dorothy Marie Tomsic. Along with his cherished sister, Anna-Marie, the family moved to Chicago when Larry was young. Larry’s father found work during the end of the Great Depression, on the Sante Fe Railroad Line. In Chicago, Larry attended Our Lady of Sorrows Grammar School, St. Phillips High School, and Loyola University. He spent his youth in the Westside neighborhood, entertained by friends, comic books and work. Larry delivered groceries throughout his childhood, and this early workload may have factored in on the development of his strong form and attitude. His strength fostered an interest and advancement in amateur boxing with the CYO. In this capacity, Larry attracted the attention of others and received training from Middle Weight Champion, Tony Zale.
A Life’s Mission: Fatherhood
Larry served his country as a draftee in the Army from 1960 through 1962, and then returned to Chicago to marry Carol Ann Scheer on August 7, 1962. His greatest accomplishment was the birth of his 7 children: Louis Paul, Carol Francis, Lawrence Charles, Joseph Patrick, Robert James, Michael Frances, and Andrew Gerard. As a young husband and father, Larry worked at Corn Products International in Chicago. In 1977, he relocated his family to the state of Washington and began life as a single father. In Washington, Larry worked as a carpenter and millwright, and had the support of his sister, Anna-Marie, who served as a mother figure to Larry’s children.
Big Happy Family
Larry was a king, loving and supportive father who would often share his passion of nature with his children. His son recalls how Larry would make up stories to make his children laugh. His children would anticipate the arrival of the big yellow station wagon, which would indicate that dad was home, often with treats or toys. Larry always played an active role in his children’s lives, joining them in some game, sitting and reading “the funnies” from the paper, taking an interest in their interests, or taking them to the movies. His son recalls, “Whenever I was sick my dad would take care of me. He would massage my back or stomach to make me feel better, tell me stories, check for monsters in my room and say the sweetest things to me when I developed panic attacks.” Two of Larry’s children were special needs, and Larry cared for them both emotionally and financially until his passing.
Overcoming Tragedy
On April 6, 1983, Larry lost his mother and only sister in a tragic car accident. Losing his loved ones and those who helped him care for his seven children was a major challenge. But Larry, in his loving fashion, ensured that his children stayed the priority. His son recalls, “I never saw my dad cry once in my life. He held me all night, the night Anna-Marie died, and I fell asleep in his arms.” Truly on his own, Larry continued to provide love and support for his children, well into their adult years. Larry’s love for his children extended to the passion and joy he shared in his 8 grandchildren: Jaime, Zachary, Summer, Calvin, Dylan, Natalie, Louis and Caval.
Life’s Legacy
Larry passed away on March 9, 2012 in Spokane, Washington. He leaves behind a legacy of a kind, loving and supportive father who sacrificed everything for the benefit of his children. The depth of his love felt by his children is evident in their love for him. “I love him and want to be just like him. My dream in life is to get married and have a son and name him after my beloved dad, Larry LeRoy Tomsic.”
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