Lawrence V. Rorke, Sr., 91 years, a lifelong resident of Monroe, MI, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, September 7, 2013 in his home.
Born April 19, 1922 in Monroe, Larry was the son of the late Frank and Mary (Suzor) Rorke. Larry grew up in Monroe and attended St. Joseph Elementary School.
Larry served our country honorably and proudly during WWII as a Private in the US Army. Larry served from December 7, 1942 until his discharge on January 1, 1946. Larry served in the Rhineland and Central Europe. For his heroism Larry received the American Theater Ribbon, EAME Theater Ribbon with two Bronze Stars, The Good Conduct Medal and the WWII Victory Medal.
On February 23, 1947, Larry married his beloved wife, the former Lucille Kay "Sundee" Norton, in Bowling Green, OH. Sadly, she preceded him in death on November 24, 1999 after 52 years of marriage.
Larry was employed as a boiler room man at Consolidated Paper for 13 years, the manager of Country Club Apartments in Monroe for 6 years, and as a school bus drive for Monroe Public Schools for 12 years from which he retired in 1990.
Larry was a member of St. Michael The Archangel Catholic Church and a life member of the VFW Post 1138 in Monroe. He enjoyed painting homes, watching wrestling on television and spending time with family. Larry also enjoyed riding his stationary bicycle where he was featured in a Monroe Evening News article for clocking over 10,000 miles.
Larry is survived by two loving sons: Lawrence V. (Jean) Rorke, Jr. of Monroe, and Darby L. (Shauna) Rorke of Milan, MI, five cherished grandchildren, five treasured great grandchildren, a brother: George Rorke and a sister: Linda Soleau both of Monroe. In addition to his parents and wife, Larry was preceded in death by an infant daughter Nancy and four brothers.
In keeping with Larry's wishes, cremation will be held and he will be interred next to his wife at LaSalle Township Cemetery where a graveside service will be held on Monday, September 16, 2013 at 12:00 Noon. Fr. Stephen Vileo will officiate and the VFW Post 1138 will conduct military honors.
Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Jude Children's Hospital.
The Bacarella Funeral Home is assisting with funeral arrangements.