Lawrence “Larry” R. Sterpka, Jr., 76, of Brimfield, OH, passed Sunday, June 15, 2025. He was born March 3, 1949, in Cleveland, OH, to the late Lawrence and Mary (nee Kralik) Sterpka, Sr.
He was raised in Windham, OH, and was a proud graduate of Windham High School, where he met the love of his life, Betty Andrews. Larry served in the U.S. Army, and when he returned, he worked various jobs while playing in bands, pursuing a musical career. He and his siblings were born with music in their hearts and household; Larry developed a love of making music with his family, whether it was playing drums, playing his guitar, or singing. He started writing and performing his own songs as a teenager and continued to do so into his 70’s. Larry also enjoyed working on computers and was a sought after and well-liked computer tech for many years at Parker Hannifin. He loved helping other people, even being requested by the CEO of the company to go to his personal home to fix his computer. He retired from Parker Hannifin soon after to become a full-time babysitter for his youngest granddaughter, Reaya. Larry had belonged to the Knights of Columbus. Larry enjoyed golfing and being in a bowling league with his family, but most of all loved family gatherings and spending time with loved ones. His favorite holiday was Christmas because he loved that people were nicer to each other during that time of year.
Larry will forever be missed by his loving wife, Betty Sterpka, who was blessed to share over 55 years of marriage; daughter, Nichole (James); granddaughters, Brooke McInnes, Alexis McInnes, and Reaya McInnes; great-grandson, Dahmir McInnes; siblings, Marty (Lori) Sterpka, Tom (Dorinda) Sterpka, Mary Sterpka-Delaney, Anne (Tim) McManus, Chris (Thomas) Collins, Irene (Ken) Bragg, as well as many nephews, nieces, and dear friends. Grandpa Uncle Larry was also survived by his daughter’s best friend of 37 years (unofficial adopted daughter), Tia Wilmoth, and his bonus grandchildren, Chloee Gostlin, Donald Gostlin, Talia Wilmoth, and Macee Wilmoth,
Visitation was held on Sunday, June 22, 2025, 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., at Mallory-DeHaven-Carlson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 8382 Center St., Garrettsville, OH 44231. Another visitation was held at the funeral home Monday, June 23, 2025, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. The funeral service followed promptly at 1:00 p.m., with Fr. James Lang officiating. Larry was then taken to Windham Twp. Cemetery in Windham Twp., OH, where he will be lovingly laid to rest near his parents. The family welcomed casual attire, especially Hawaiian shirts, Christmas shirts, or music related shirts. Larry wouldn’t want anyone to be uncomfortable at his celebration of life.
In lieu of flowers, you are welcome to donate in his name to his favorite charity, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, https://www.stjude.org/promotion/impact-giving-pm.html, or any community or veteran related service. For online condolences go to www.carlsonfuneralhomes.com.
