Larry Bowers

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Larry George Bowers “Papa”.  Born in Bancroft in 1952, Larry lost his brave 18-month battle with pancreatic cancer on January 19, 2024, at the age of 71, surrounded by the love of his family.  

Larry met the love of his life, Sandy Sheppard, at a barn dance where they shared an instant connection and their love continued to grow every day for over 30 years. 

Larry enjoyed cooking, had a great passion for playing and listening to music, and you would regularly find he and Sandy working together on DIY projects around the house or relaxing at home holding hands watching movies. 

Family was everything to Larry. He was a proud, loving Dad and Papa who leaves behind five children Antonia (Dave), Carrie (Kevin), Joel (Ashley), Jessica (Blair) and Shawn (Natasha) as well as nine amazing grandchildren Austin, Alex, Logan, Mackenzie, Holden, Lydia, Tenley, Everlee, and Briar. 

Larry was predeceased by his Mother, Evelyn, and his sister Margaret (Peggy).  

Larry’s early life was filled with adversity, but he always let positivity and love win.  

Out on his own since the age of 12, Larry chose to lead a life of hard work and pride in family.  Larry moved in with his brother Rick and sister-in-law Pat in Beamsville in 1970.  While living with them, his passion for working on cars grew while doing so with his brother.  Larry went on to earn a degree in Automotive Technology and was a Federal Red Seal Automotive Technician for upwards of 50 years, quickly becoming the one person that friends and colleagues alike could call and get their problems resolved quickly; he truly was an automotive genius.  

Larry’s personality was infectious and there wasn’t a person that met Larry who wouldn’t say he touched their life in a special way. He meant so much to so many and will be missed dearly.  

Our family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the professionals who provided exceptional care to Larry throughout his cancer journey: the amazing team at the London Regional Cancer Program including Dr. Lenehan and Dr. Nguyen, the wonderful nurses and doctors on the Palliative Ward at Woodstock Hospital and the entire team at Sakura House Hospice who helped Larry and our family so much during his final week.  

In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations to VON Sakura House in Woodstock, Ontario in Larry’s honour.  

Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.   

Wareing Cremation Services, 225 Norwich Avenue, Woodstock was entrusted with Final Arrangements.  Your messages of remembrance and condolence may be shared here at wareingcremation.ca