Larry Leo Gnade

Larry Gnade was born on February 11, 1944 in Butler, PA. He grew up there with his sister, Joyce Slater, brothers Carl and Dick Gnade and cousins Ron, Dan, Brian, and John McGinnis. Larry grew up on a dairy farm and worked in a bakery until graduating from high school.

After appearing on The American Bandstand Show, with Dick Clark, Larry decided to hit the road with cousin Ron . They took Route 66 out to California to visit Larry's aunt and uncle, Mabel and George McGinnis, who had moved out west for work. While in California, Larry and Ron found work on the Pepper Tree Horse Ranch. After a while, Ron decided that Pennsylvania was the place for him so he went back to be with his soon to be wife, Barb. Larry liked the climate here in Hemet much better and decided to stay on and look for part-time work. While at the unemployment office, he was hired by Ben Stirdivant to work retail at Stirdivant's Shoes. While at work one day, Larry met the boss' daughter, Diane, who eventually became his wife of 47 years.

Larry was drafted and spent two years in the Army, serving time stationed in Thailand. At the end of his duty, he returned home to his wife, daughter Tracie, and his job at Stirdivant's Shoes. In the years to come, Larry and Diane had two sons, Travis and Tim.

Bringing his family up in the Christian faith was most important to Larry. He was a wonderful provider and loving husband, father and grandfather, who spoke with great pride of his loved ones. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren Kyle and Chad Yohe, Logan and Easton Gnade, and Byrce Campbell. Watching Jeopardy, playing dominos and cards and planting flowers were some of his favorite family activities. Seeing his kids and grand kids participate in sports and school programs also brought him great joy.

He was an active member in the church, sang in the church choir and loved his church family very much. His giving nature meant that Christmas held an especially dear place in Larry's heart. As we approach his favorite time of year, may you all be blessed as you prepare to celebrate our Savior's birth. Peace be with you and your family through this holiday season.

We wish our sincerest appreciation to all our dear friends and family for their outpouring of support, love, and kindness through this difficult time. Larry cared very much for you all and was truly blessed to have you in his life. He enjoyed your fellowship dearly. God's blessings to you, we love you all.

The Gnade Family.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made, in Larry's honor, to St. John's Lutheran Church and Lutheran Braille Workers #13.