Obituaries

Larry Nicholas Licharson
   It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Larry Licharson. Early on the morning of August 30th, lovingly surrounded by his wife and children, he died peacefully in his sleep. A brief illness cut his life far too short at only 68 years. Though his time was brief, he made a considerable impact on those whom he knew, and the city of Winnipeg.    Larry was the second son born to a Greek immigrant father and Ukrainian mother. Growing up in Winnipeg’s West End, he attended Gordon Bell High School and later the University of Manitoba. It was during his youth and young adulthood that his personal character developed into a man who was gregarious, compassionate, and dedicated; all traits he used in exemplary ways throughout his life. His natural ability to connect with those around him led him to pursue a degree in commerce, eventually starting his own recruitment advertising firm, HR Adworks LTD. He was a prominent figure not only in the business community, but also as a dedicated political and charitable fixture on the boards of various organizations. Larry served in multiple capacities while contributing to policy in the city of Winnipeg and the Province of Manitoba. He served as Chair of the Board of the Winnipeg Aids Shelter Foundation, Manitoba Theatre for Young People, and Big Brothers of Winnipeg. He served on the boards of Oak Hammock Marsh, Ducks Unlimited, the Women’s Employment Counselling Service, the Immigrant Women’s Employment Counselling Service, the Winnipeg Police Board, and the Winnipeg chapter of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association.   It was in 1989, during his tenure with Big Brothers that he met Catherine Cronin in an elevator on his way to a meeting. She herself was early to the same meeting, as she served on the board of Big Sisters. Two years later they were married in St. John Brebeuf Church, and they built a brief but indelibly meaningful life together. Through their 26 year marriage they raised three children, Thomas Andrew Patrick, Mary Margaret Olivia, and Michael August Theodore; as well as two dogs and one cat. From coaching t-ball practice to watching Christmas concerts, to cheering their sports teams to seeing them graduate, Larry was always his kids’ biggest fan. There was never a deficit of love or pride in the home they shared, as Larry and Cathie raised their children to strive to live as the best reflections of their parents. As they grew older, so too did each of their relationships with him, gaining perspective on the world and an understanding of Larry outside of fatherhood; truly becoming friends as adults.    Larry made a lasting impression on those he met, counting everyone as friends. He offered sage advice from his knowledge of the world and his life; never controlling, always wanting the best for those around him. He showed love through this generosity of spirit, helping others objectively and indiscriminately. There was little he enjoyed more than a weekend at the cottage on the shores of Lake Winnipeg, surrounded by his family, his friends, a good CD, a glass of Jameson’s, and a cigar. Sharing stories with Larry inevitably ended in a peal of his full-bodied, genuine laughter, which was always contagious. His smile never dimmed in the presence of those whom he loved, and it will always remain alight in the hearts and memories of those who loved him. Though his time with us was far too short, his impact will be felt for years to come.    Larry was predeceased by his father John D. Licharson, mother Mary Espersen (nee Shott), step-father John Espersen, and brother-in-law Kevin Cronin. He is survived by his wife Cathie and his children, Tom, Maggie, and Mike; his brother John (Elna), and step-sister Lori Espersen; nephews Daniel and Loris (Shawna); as well as his great-nieces Shannon and Clio and great-nephew Jakob. He leaves his aunt and godmother Ollie Litkowitch and aunt Louise Shott, as well as many cousins throughout the province, country, and the United States, all much loved.    A funeral service will be held at St. John Brebeuf Church, 1707 John Brebeuf Place, on Tuesday September 5th at 1:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Winnipeg or the St. Paul’s College Foundation.23560   Wojcik’s Funeral Chapels & Crematoriums, Winnipeg, 2157 Portage Avenue, 204.897.4665 www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com