Connors, Lawrence “Larry”

Wednesday, August 28, 2024 – Loving husband for 55 years of the late Nancy Connors. Beloved father of Susan (Barry) Zumwinkel, Janet (Daniel) Henrichs and Sharon (Daniel) Kreher. Cherished grandfather of Brian (Bridgette Svancarek) Zumwinkel, Craig (fiancé Nancy Adkison) Zumwinkel, Mark (Stephanie) Zumwinkel, Kurt Zumwinkel, Nic (Abby) Fears, Ryan Henrichs, Adam Henrichs and Sarah (Dan) Einhorn, Madison (fiancé Sean Shipley) Kreher and Paige Kreher (partner Andrew Morrison). Great grandfather of Blake, Bailey, Mia, Kylie, Jack, Nolan and Leo. Treasured brother of Judith Hehl, the late Robert (the late Bev) Connors and the late Kathy Connors. Dear uncle, cousin, brother-in-law, and friend.

SERVICES: Visitation  Saturday October 12, (9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.) and funeral mass (10:30 a.m.) at Holy Infant Catholic Church, 627 Dennison Dr., Ballwin MO

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital http://fundraising.stjude.org/goto/Inmemory_LarryConnors. Larry’s family also encourages you to commit to smiling more often and show kindness to others on a daily basis.

Born in St. Louis on April 4, 1936, to Lawrence and Frances Connors, Larry was a proud member of the first graduating class of Bishop DuBourg High School. He went on to serve with honor in the Army as a radio operator in South Korea following the Korean War.

On January 3, 1959, Larry married the love of his life, Nancy, becoming the first couple married in St. Louis that year. Their union marked the beginning of a lifetime of love, adventure, and family.

Driven by a strong work ethic, Larry balanced family life with his career and education. He earned his undergraduate degree from Washington University after nine years of night school while working full-time and raising three daughters. His pursuit of excellence continued with an MBA from the University of Illinois – Edwardsville’s executive management program. Larry’s professional life was marked by dedication and expertise, culminating in his role as Manufacturing Manager at Lewis Pumps Company, where he worked until his retirement in 1998.

While Larry enjoyed hobbies such as playing golf, poker and woodcarving, the primary focus of his energies outside of work was always his family. He was a constant presence at all of his daughters’ activities and special milestones, embodying the role of a devoted father. His commitment to family extended to the next generation, as he even helped coach soccer for his eldest grandson Brian’s team and could often be found cheering on his grandchildren at sports games, dance recitals and gymnastics meets. Larry was always ready with a comforting hug and was often sought out for advice, not only by his daughters but also by the employees he managed, a testament to his wisdom and compassionate nature.

Larry’s beautiful Irish tenor voice was a gift he shared generously. For years, he lent his talents to the church choir at St. Margaret Mary Alacoque and brought joy to area senior living residents as a member of the Twilight Singers for over two decades. His annual solo rendition of “Christmas in Killarney” during holiday performances was always eagerly anticipated and warmly received. It was a special pleasure to hear him harmonize with his siblings.

Inspired by his military service in South Korea, Larry developed a passion for travel and a desire to broaden his family’s horizons. He and Nancy took their daughters on numerous summer road trips across the United States, creating lasting memories and instilling a sense of adventure. In retirement, Larry and Nancy continued to explore, traveling the world together.

Larry’s legacy is one of joy, compassion, and kindness. He lived by the principle that one could make a positive impact on the world by brightening at least one person’s day – a practice he maintained until his final days. His sharp sense of humor and warm smile will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.