Lawrence M Paiva

by his Children (Julie, Richard, Don)

Larry’s 90 years of a life lived well was exemplified by his love and self-sacrifice for family, commitment to country, devotion to religion, and caring for others / friends. His adventurous spirit led him to Tripoli, Libya where he met and married his beloved wife, Grace, who passed two years ago after 65 years of marriage. Larry’s core values helped lay the foundation for his children’s success – instilling the importance of educational growth, self-directiveness, and most importantly his unwavering commitment to purpose, particularly his self-sacrifice for family. He also lived his life around the Catholic church’s doctrines, particularly helping those less fortunate – and so enjoyed donating bicycles at Christmas for needy children.

Larry devotion to country led him, along with his older brother, to enlist in the U.S. Air Force. He was recognized as an innovator in next generation military communication systems and a mentor for young airman, including around life skills. Larry served with distinction across the global, including in a theater of war where he was awarded the Bronze Star, Air Force Commendation, and Joint Service Commendation medals. After 23 years of service, he retired from the military.

Larry continued to service his country with the Department of Civil Service where he supported the U.S Air Force mission as a broadcast engineer and highlighted by being awarded the U.S. Air Force civilian communications-electronics manager of the year in 1985.

After retiring from the Department of Civil Service, Larry spent his final years along with his wife in Las Vegas to be close to their grandchildren – who they so loved. Throughout his life, he remained passionate about remote control model aircraft and teaching youth how to build and fly these aircraft.

Larry’s memory, particularly his values, now live on through his children (Julie, Richard, and Don); grandchildren (Jennifer and Sean) who he loved – affectionately known to them as “pee paw” – and an important part of their village; greatgrandchildren; and relatives / friends.

A chapel service for Lawrence will be held Friday, April 28, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 12:40 PM at Southern Nevada Veteran's Memorial Cemetery, 1900 Veteran's Memorial Drive, Boulder City, NV 89005.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmcheyenne.com for the Paiva family.