Lawrence (Larry) W. Mead

Lawrence (Larry) Walter Mead was born February 4, 1940, in Oto, IA, the son of Lawrence Gilmer and Edith Mae Daniels Mead. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Rex Gilmer, Dennis Paul, and sister, Esther Joanne.

Larry died on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at UnityPoint Health - St. Luke's - Sioux City from complications brought on from a stroke.

Larry dedicated numerous years of his life to his profession as a machinist at Sioux Tools in Sioux City, Iowa. Even after retiring from this role, he continued to extend his assistance to local farmers in the Climbing Hill and Hornick areas, supporting them with both planting and harvesting and all that entails. However, his family believes that his proudest moments were during his service on the Woodbury County Sheriff’s Posse and as a police officer in Anthon, Iowa.

Larry enjoyed outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and exploring the woods. During these adventures, he often discovered various trinkets, knick-knacks, and the occasional animal skull, all of which he carefully collected and proudly displayed in his shed. Larry possessed excellent mechanical skills, particularly with automobiles and machinery, and he took great pride in his countless tools, all of which his children knew we were not to touch.

He was known for his stubborn nature, but he expressed his love for his family through his unwavering work ethic, often holding multiple jobs and consistently striving to do his best with the skills he possessed. Those who loved him will deeply miss his presence every day for years to come.

Larry is survived by his wife of almost 61 years, Dorothy C. Mead (Porter).  They were married on December 23, 1962, in Smithland, Iowa. Five sons, Robert (Faye), Randy, Isaiah (Tiffany), Issac, and Gabriel. Five daughters, Robin, Rachel (John), Carrie (Patrick), Monica and Glory. 19 grandchildren Ray, Kass, Kristy, Karter, Kyrena, Korey, Kolton, Thaddeus, Lael, Maleah, Marlie, Olivia, Rocco, Amelia, Roman, Mathias, Elias, Ariah, and Leilani and many great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2023 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cornerstone World Outreach Connect Building - 1603 Glen Ellen Rd. Sioux City, IA 51106 (Larry’s home church of more than 40 years).