Lawrence Edward Gorrek, known to all as Larry, passed away on Sunday, January 26, 2025. He was born to Edward and Mabel Gorrek in Little Neck, NY, on April 25, 1944. As a youth, he played baseball, caddied at local golf courses, and enjoyed summer visits with his mother’s family in Wisconsin. Larry graduated fromContinue Reading
Lawrence Edward Gorrek, known to all as Larry, passed away on Sunday, January 26, 2025. He was born to Edward and Mabel Gorrek in Little Neck, NY, on April 25, 1944. As a youth, he played baseball, caddied at local golf courses, and enjoyed summer visits with his mother’s family in Wisconsin. Larry graduated from Bayside High School, then attended NYIT, studying architecture before enlisting in the US Naval Reserve. Larry sailed the Western Pacific, navigating the seas as Quartermaster on the USS Yorktown.
After the Navy, while still in Long Beach, CA, he met and married Ellen Foltz. They raised their four children in Lindenhurst, NY before parting ways in 1983. Larry is survived by his beloved children: Julie (Gaetano) Lombardo and their children Thomas and Grace; Amy (Bill Bowen) and their daughter Hope; Michael; and Matthew (Matt Berman). He was preceded in death by his parents and dear ‘Sis’ Margaret McDowell, who passed away on December 9, 2023.
Larry’s career in furniture sales spanned decades, beginning at American Traditional Furniture and later at Atlantic Furniture, where he combined his architectural background with a talent for room design. His unique ability to offer customized, to-scale room plans made him a trusted resource for loyal customers. After retiring from the furniture business, Larry worked part-time as a neighborhood bartender.
A skilled golfer, Larry boasted a single-digit handicap and the impressive feat of three holes-in-one. Many of his travels centered around golf trips with close friends. He was a sports fan and enjoyed friendly competition through football pools and the racetrack. Larry loved to cook and enjoyed signature homemade meals. Father’s Day lobster boils and St. Patrick’s Day feasts became cherished family traditions, especially with his grandchildren.
He lived life on his own terms, and was a devoted son, caring for his mother in her later years. As a father, grandfather, and friend, Larry’s presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.
Larry was a devout Lutheran who attended church each Sunday. In place of flowers, the family requests donations to Redeemer Lutheran Church, 36-01 Bell Blvd., Bayside, NY 11361
Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Your condolence may need to be approved before it appears on this page. It may not appear immediately once submitted.
Thank you for leaving a condolence..
Your comment has been submitted for moderation.