Larry Lee Gapen, 80, was born March 24th, 1945 to Melvin and Madge (Glandon) Gapen in Burlington, IA. He left this world to live in eternity with our Lord November 29th surrounded with love. He lived many places growing up but eventually called Stronghurst, IL his home. He was married to Judy Hilliard and later married the love of his life, Nancy Russell, on March 1st, 1985.
As a young boy, he was fascinated with motors. He became a talented mechanic, building, fixing, restoring, and racing anything with wheels. He was a true artist in that respect. He had the need for speed. Whether it was a classic car, a motor cycle, a race car, or his beloved corvettes, he always put the pedal to the metal. Larry lived his life just like that, always on the go, 0 to 80.
Larry owned his own trucking business early on in his life. He worked for several Burlington construction companies and eventually owned Gap’s Auto car dealership. He finally retired from the Henderson County Drainage District after 34 years of service.
Larry loved life. His world revolved around his family, friends, his dogs, working on cars, and driving his beloved Corvettes. He enjoyed eating at Napolis and Applebees. Each Sunday he would socialize at the River City Auction, always looking for a good deal. He had a soft spot for animals and took great pride caring for his dogs, Goldie and Noodles. He spent two weeks each summer in Knoxville, Iowa, camping and attending the World of Outlaw races. Go Schatzs!
Larry is survived by his wife, Nancy, three sons Jeff, Mark, and Brandon (Jillian) Gapen and two daughters Kathy (Scott) Parker and Kaila (Cory) Fox. He has 12 grandchildren: Kinleigh, Carter, Walker, Theodora, Hannah, Jackson, Bennett, Noah, Andrew, Danielle, Chavana, and a grandbaby girl due in the Spring. He has seven great grandchildren: Esmae, Parker, Lilah, Wrenley, Hayden, Jaxton and Ariella.
He is proceeded in death by his mother and father, sister, two brothers, son-in-law, two grandchildren (Ava & Olivia) and his beloved dogs, Molly, Sophie, Sport, and Big John.
Arrangements for cremation have been entrusted to Banks and Beals of Stronghurst, IL. A celebration of life will be held Saturday, December 6th at the Carthage Lake Club from 1-4 pm. All are welcome to come and celebrate Larry’s life. A memorial will be established at a later date. Please visit Larry’s obituary at banksandbeals.com to leave a condolence.
