Larry was born in Dalmeny Saskatchewan on August 29, 1946, and spent his childhood in Chilliwack. He later met and married the love of his life, Sharlene and together they built a life in Maple Ridge, where they raised their three daughters: Wendy, Jennifer, and Laura.

For many years, Larry earned his living as a truck driver and the roads of the Lower Mainland became so familiar to him that he seemed to know every side-street, shortcut and hidden route imaginable. Driving was never just a job—it was something he loved. Some of Larry and Sharlene's happiest moments were spent taking long drives with no destination in mind. They would set out simply for the joy of the journey, rarely taking the same route twice and often stopping for ice cream along the way. Even in his final days, Larry still preferred taking the long way home, reminiscing and winding through the backroads he knew so well.

Larry was a collector and was good at seeing potential in things. Where others saw scrap metal, spare parts or old machinery, Larry saw possibilities. Larry was a skilled mechanic and welder. Resourceful and inventive, he had an incredible ability to fix almost anything, build something out of virtually nothing and he always had the tools for the job. He had a lifelong love of old cars and owned many over the years, but his prized possession was his 1955 Ford Thunderbird. Owning a Thunderbird was a dream that began in childhood, the day he first saw one on a car lot with his dad and knew that one day he would have one of his own.

Larry had a remarkable ability to make do with whatever he had. If something was needed, he found a way to salvage it, build it, repair it or create it himself. His creativity and ingenuity became legendary within the family. He built playhouses, swings, trailers, boats, greenhouses, irrigation systems, tractors, smokers and countless other projects. He rigged up quirky truck horns and famously installed a TV in the back of the station wagon for the kids to enjoy on their long road trips.  

While Larry's work ethic was unmatched, he found equal joy in life's simple pleasures. He was happiest tending his garden, puttering in the garage or sitting quietly on the deck with a gin and tonic in hand. Larry's garden was well known throughout the neighborhood. It wasn't immaculate or meticulously organized, but it kept him busy and produced an abundance of food every year. He was particularly fond of growing tomatoes and cucumbers and rarely went anywhere without bringing along a few to share. Whether it was vegetables from the garden or making his famous "Papa Pickles" in the crock, Larry loved growing and creating things. The joy he found in simple moments reflected the kind of man he was—humble, practical and deeply appreciative of the life he had built.

Beneath Larry's tough exterior, he was a devoted caretaker whose greatest purpose was making sure the people he loved were safe, supported and provided for. His love was often shown through actions rather than words: a repaired vehicle, a completed project, a ride when you needed one, or simply the comfort of knowing he was there. 

Larry passed away on June 12, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer. True to the man he was, he faced his illness with determination and courage, fighting until the end.

Larry was predeceased by his parents Jacob and Rose Nickel, and his two older siblings Sheldon (Beth) and Shirley (Bill). He leaves behind the love of his life, Sharlene; his daughters Wendy (Steve), Jennifer (John), and Laura (David) and his beloved grandchildren Madison, Logan, Sidney, Alexis, Marshall, Brooks and Ayla as well as a large extended family.

Words can never fully capture how much Larry will be missed. His presence remains woven into our lives and in the lessons he taught us: work hard, take care of your family, be resourceful, appreciate the simple things and never be afraid to take the long way home.

At Larry's request, there will be no funeral service. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.