Racine–Lawrence "Larry" Mark  Estep, Sr., age 91, passed away peacefully at Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Medical Center on Monday, October 1, 2012.

Lawrencewas born in Pulaski, TN on July 29, 1921 to the late Charles and Lillie (nee: Sweeny) Estep. He faithfully served our Country with the U.S. Army in WWII from 1942-45. On July 13, 1946, he was united in marriage with the love of his life, Ruth Grace Traeger.

Larry was employed by Jacobsen Mfg. for over 32 years, retiring in 1983. He and Ruth have been longtime members of Emmaus Lutheran Church. Larry was also a member of the UAW Local 556 and the Racine County Conservation League. Among his interests, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, woodworking and was an avid sports fan. Above all, Larry loved and cherished being in the surroundings of his entire family.

Surviving are his loving wife of 66 years, Ruth Estep; their sons, Larry Estep, Jr. and Gary (Sheryl) Estep; grandson, Nicholas Estep; sisters, Dorothy Prosser, Gladys Brown, Joyce Shaw and Lois Shaw; sister-in-law, Isabelle Barry; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his sisters, Mary Ward, Bernice Holland, Martha Ellen Gossnel and Geneva Gossnel; and brothers, Herman, Roscoe, Lemial, Wade and Edward Estep.

Funeral services will be held at Emmaus Lutheran Church, 1925 Summit Avenue, on Saturday, October 6, 2012 at 9:30 am with Rev. Mary Janz officiating. Interment, with military honors, will follow in Graceland Cemetery. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Friday from 4-7 pm and in the church on Saturday from 9:00 – 9:30 am.  In memory of  Larry, memorials to Emmaus Lutheran Church have been suggested.

A heartfelt note of thanks to the entire staff of Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Medical Center for the compassionate care and tremendous support; and to Rev. Mary Janz for the spiritual care given in our time of need. May God bless all of you!