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AUSTINTOWN -- Larry D. McKim, 76, passed away unexpectedly in the early hours of Monday, March 3, 2025, at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital.
Larry was born Aug. 6, 1948, in New Castle, Pa., the son of the late Earl and Helen Houston Derringer. He grew up with a strong work ethic and a love for life that he carried with him through all of his years.
For 30 years, Larry dedicated himself to his career at General Motors in Lordstown, where he worked on the assembly line and was affectionately known as "Groundhog" by his coworkers. He retired in 2000, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and cherished friendships.
A man of simple joys, Larry found happiness in the great outdoors -- fishing, hunting and tending to his garden, where he took special pride in his tomatoes. He was passionate about classic cars and motorcycles, often attending car shows to admire the craftsmanship of vintage vehicles. Music was another love of his, with ZZ Top and The Beach Boys being the soundtracks to many of his memories. A frequent visitor to the casino, Larry enjoyed the thrill of the occasional gamble.
Known as a self-proclaimed grill master, he took great pride in smoking and grilling delicious meals for family and friends. An avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan, Larry never missed a game, cheering on his team with unwavering enthusiasm.
One of Larry's greatest joys was bringing holiday magic to children and families by playing Santa Claus over the years. His warm heart and joyful spirit made Christmas even more special for those who had the pleasure of meeting him in the red suit. Above all, Larry loved and cherished the time spent with his family.
He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 30 years, Marlane Houk, whom he married Sept. 12, 1995; his three daughters, Sherry (Ted) Pekarchick of Poland, Patty (Ed) Cerezo of Bessemer, Pa., and Rachel (Brian) Warnock of Struthers; his five grandchildren, Jordan Pekarchick, Sierra Cerezo, Isabella Cerezo, Conor Warnock and Cameron Warnock; and his three brothers, Tim (Louise) McKim of Darlington, Pa., Tom (Carol) McKim of East Palestine and Ed Derringer of Rogers. He will also be missed by his many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.
Larry was preceded in death by his two brothers, Glenn McKim and Larry Derringer; as well as his beloved dog, Lulu, who was his faithful companion.
Family and friends may gather to pay respects 10 a.m. to noon Friday, March 7, 2025, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown, where a funeral service will take place at noon.
Interment will follow in Four Mile Run Cemetery.
Larry will be remembered for his kind heart, quick wit and the joy he brought to those around him. He lived his life with passion, humor and love, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories.
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