Larry R. Wilson

Larry R. Wilson, 79, of Peoria, formerly of Washington, passed away at 6:52 am on Tuesday, May 16, 2017 at his residence after a 15 month battle with cancer. He was born on August 25, 1937, in Toledo, Ohio to Charles Rhodell and Easter Jane Wilson. He married Sharon K. Sandberg on October 17, 1959 in Terre Haute, Indiana. Larry and Sharon have been married for 57 years. They have 3 children; Dawn R. Koehl of Washington, Darren R. (Lisa) Wilson of Washington, and Douglas A. (Jeanette) Wilson of Peoria. Also surviving are 6 grandchildren; Amanda and Jordan Koehl, Spencer, Madison and Dillon Wilson, and Alexander (Sarah) Wilson. Larry received his Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Rose Polytechnic Institute, and his Master of Business Administration from Bradley University. He worked at Caterpillar for 43 years in Marketing, Product Planning and Strategic Planning traveling to 6 continents, 108 countries including Switzerland and India along with residing in Indianapolis and the Northwest. He loved the opportunity to share the various cultures - friends and coworkers always knew his door was never closed to anyone in need. Larry's greatest priorities were his Christian faith, his family and friends. Larry attended Riverside Community Church in Peoria. His precious smile was always on his face even during his most difficult challenges. He always had words of kindness, encouragement and a ready joke to lighten a person's day. He was his family's and friends' best 3am friend. Larry was a selfless person. Even as he struggled with his own health issues, he still made an effort to research ways to help others. His life was always about how he could share God's love and lift hearts. He loved his God and family with unceasing passion. Larry remained optimistic and determined to fight his battle with cancer while putting all his faith in God and God's plan for him. His family is left with a legacy of honesty, compassion, tenderness and love that he attributed to God. He will be forever remembered and missed. At the request of Larry, cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memories and condolences may be sent using www.masonfunerlhomes.com.