Larry Hargrave

Larry Wayne Hargrave, 67, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on Sunday, March 11, 2018.  He was born on September 2, 1950, in Wood River, the son of the late Lawrence and Doris (Johnson) Hargrave.  Larry is leaving behind his wife Cindy Hargrave, one daughter and son in law: Brandi and Adam DeFrates of Jacksonville, Illinois, a son: Andrew Kayser of Cottage Hills, one step – daughter and her husband: Meghan and Dave Estes of St. Charles, Missouri, his grandchildren: Troy DeFrates, Madi DeFrates, Hunter Lawson, one sister: Sharon Zach of St. Louis, a niece and her husband: Lisa and Tom Kramkowski, a nephew and his wife: TJ and Angela Zach, a special sister in law: Jeannie “Twinkie” Wade of Godfrey, an adopted son: Dustin Brackett, and his children: Bryce, Mallory, Dawson, and many other close family and friends.

Larry graduated from Civic Memorial in 1969.  He then enlisted in the Air Force and served in Vietnam.  He got a Bachelor’s Degree in Science from Greenville College.  He retired from Shell Oil and Conoco Phillips.  Larry had many passions but racing took 1^st.  He raced late models in the 70’s and 80’s.  Jimmy Owens was his favorite dirt track driver and Rusty Wallace was his favorite NASCAR driver.  He loved the St. Louis Blues and was a season ticket holder for fifteen years.  He loved to bowl and go RV’ing.  Larry lived a full and happy life. 

In celebration of his life, visitation will be from 4pm to 8pm on Wednesday, March 14, 2018, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River.  Funeral services will be held at 10am on Thursday, March 15, 2018, at the funeral home.  Chaplain Randy Butler will officiate.  Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto with full military honors by the Ritual Team VFW Post 1308 of Alton. 

Memorials are suggested to BJC Hospice or the charity of the donor’s choice and will be accepted at the funeral home. 

The family would like to express thanks to BJC Hospice and his nurse Becca for making his last days very comfortable and less painful.

Online guestbook available at www.pitchfordfuneralhome.com.

Obit Provided By:
Pitchford Funeral Home