Larry Dalton Winfrey, was born on March 8, 1948, in Laporte, Indiana, and passed away on October 13, 2026, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Larry lived a life marked by service, devotion, and quiet strength. He was the beloved husband of Cynthia Winfrey, a devoted father to Melissa (Anthony) Duncan, and a proud grandfather to Emma Duncan, who brought him immeasurable joy. He is also remembered with love by his mother-in-law, Gloria Mohr; his brother-in-law, Rick Mohr; his niece and nephews, Kim Bleise, Jeremy Bleise, and Matt Bleise; and the many family members and friends whose lives were brightened by his steady presence. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lowell and Hazel Winfrey, and by his sister, Beverly Bleise. Though they have gone before him, their influence remained part of the foundation that shaped the man he became.

Larry graduated from Kankakee High School in 1966, and soon after, he answered a call greater than himself by joining the United States Marine Corps. He served honorably during the Vietnam War, carrying with him the discipline, courage, and resilience that would define the rest of his life. His service reflected a deep sense of duty and sacrifice, and it stood as a powerful example of what it means to live with purpose. He did not simply endure difficult seasons. He faced them with resolve, and he carried that same strength into every chapter that followed.

After his time in the Marine Corps, Larry built an impressive career at Caterpillar, where he worked for 32 years. His work ethic was unwavering, and his commitment to doing things the right way earned the respect of those around him. He understood the value of perseverance, and he lived as someone who knew that a meaningful life is built one faithful day at a time. He showed up, he gave his best, and he left behind a legacy of reliability and integrity.

Larry was a Christian, and his faith was reflected in the way he lived. He was loving, selfless, and gentle, and those qualities were not just words used to describe him. They were the evidence of a life lived with heart. He had a way of making others feel valued, and he carried himself with a calm spirit that brought comfort to the people around him. In a world that often moves too fast, Larry reminded others of the power of kindness, patience, and steadfast love.

He found joy in the open road, especially during long motorcycle trips with friends. Those rides were more than a pastime. They were moments of freedom, fellowship, and adventure, and they reflected his appreciation for life’s simple and meaningful pleasures. He enjoyed shooting at the gun range, where focus and skill met a sense of camaraderie. He also spent several years living in Florida, a chapter of life that added more memories to a journey already filled with them. Yet above all, Larry treasured time with his family, and especially with his granddaughter, Emma. Being with her was one of the great joys of his life, and his love for her was deep, genuine, and unmistakable.

Larry’s life is a reminder that greatness is not always loud. Sometimes it is found in faithful service, in a strong work ethic, in a loving marriage, in a warm laugh, in a steady hand, and in the way a person treats others with dignity and grace. He lived with honor, he loved with sincerity, and he gave of himself in ways that will continue to matter for generations. His story encourages us to stand firm, to love deeply, and to make every day count.

Those who knew Larry will remember a man of strength and tenderness, a Marine, a worker, a husband, a father, a grandfather, and a friend. They will remember his gentle nature, his selfless heart, and the quiet confidence with which he moved through life. His memory will remain a source of comfort and inspiration to all who were blessed to know him.

Larry Dalton Winfrey leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and love that will not be forgotten. Though he is no longer here in body, the impact of his life continues to speak. He ran his race with dignity, he kept the faith in his own steadfast way, and he showed all who loved him how to live with courage and grace.

Interment with military honors will take place at a future date at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.