Lawrence (Larry) Edward Van Parys, age 94, a long-time resident of St. Petersburg and Tampa, Florida, passed away Thursday, February 23, 2017, in St. Petersburg, Florida. He was born July 7, 1922, in Newark, New York.

His parents having died when Larry was a small child, Larry was raised by his paternal grandparents. He enlisted in the Army in 1940. During WWII, he served in the 82nd Airborne Division, 505th PIR. As a paratrooper, in addition to involvement in the European Campaign, he participated in the invasion of Normandy (D-Day). A Bronze Star and Purple Heart recipient, he received an Honorable Discharge from the Army in 1945. He operated his own business until he went to work for the Air Force in a civilian capacity in Supply Management. He retired in 1977. He was a member of the Friends of Bill’s for 44 years. Larry was a fan of sailing in his younger years and then became an avid golfer.

Larry married Adeline Vivian Zazzara in 1942 in Lyons, New York.

Larry is survived by his son, Peter (Sharon) Van Parys of Dadeville, Alabama; two grandchildren, Michael (Lisa) Van Parys of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and Michele Van Parys of McLean, Virginia; and two great-grandchildren, Lindsey and William Van Parys of Murfreesboro, Tennessee. He was preceded in death by his wife Adeline Van Parys; his parents, Peter and Anna Van Parys; and his grandparents, Jacob and Felomane Van Parys.

Larry’s family is deeply grateful to the caregivers at Carrington Place of St. Pete and the Suncoast Hospice, Lavender Team, all of whom cared for him when he was no longer able to care for himself. Also, we thank his many, many friends who were “always” there for him. In keeping with Larry’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. If you wish, donations may be made to the Glaucoma Foundation.