Larry E. Wilson

Larry E. Wilson, 75, of rural Flat Rock, IL, unexpectedly passed away at his home on May 19, 2023. He was born on June 9, 1947, in Martinsville, IN, the son of Marion & Jean (Johnson) Wilson. He would go on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he worked in various industries throughout his life. Larry began his career with RCA in Bloomington, IN, before moving to Crawford County to work at the Robinson Bowling Alley for three or four years. He then worked as a bartender for his mother-in-law, followed by positions at TruFax, Yakel Motor, and finally, Fair-Rite. Larry retired from Fair-Rite after spending 20 years with the company, where he worked as a kiln tender and later as a foreman in the powder room.

In his retirement years, Larry worked as a groundskeeper at Oak Glen Golf Course. It wasn't all work at Oak Glen, as he also played many a round of golf there over the years. Larry was, by all accounts, a passionate sports fan and loved watching Hoosier basketball, Chicago Bears football, and Chicago Cubs baseball. In his later years, he spent his free time playing Mahjong and Solitaire on the computer and continued to watch Cubs games online, even when he could no longer get them on television.

A longtime and active member of the Robinson Lion's Club, Larry's passion for community involvement was evident in the countless events he took part in. Though the man was friendly and kind-hearted, he was also known to be stubborn as a mule. In short, you couldn't prove him wrong if he decided he was right! That being said, his friendly nature always shone through when he was out and about, engaging in conversation with his friends and fellow community members.

As we remember Larry Wilson, we celebrate his life and the memories he leaves behind. His selfless service to his country and community will forever be cherished, his lasting impact on family and friends will forever be felt, and his treasured presence will forever be missed.

He married the love of his life, Gina (Phillippe), on September 9, 1978, and together, they enjoyed over 44 years of marriage before his passing. He is also survived by his mother, Jean Wilson; his daughter, Jeana Wilson; four adoring grandchildren; and his fur-friend, Beau. He also leaves behind two brothers, Steven Wilson and Richard Wilson; three sisters, Linda Roy, Debra Chester, and Dianne Wilson; along with several nieces and nephews. Larry was preceded in death by his father, Marion Wilson and his son, Michael Wilson.

A time of visitation will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 25th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. A memorial service will immediately follow and be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to his memorial fund, with checks made payable to "Goodwine Funeral Homes".