Lawrence "Larry" Occhibone, Jr.

Lawrence (Larry) Anthony Occhibone, Jr. 63 of North East, PA passed away suddenly on June 24, 2023. He was born in New Castle, PA on April 16, 1960 to the late Lawrence and Audrey Altman Occhibone. He graduated from New Castle High School, Community College of the United States Air Force and the Park College of Missouri. 

Larry proudly served in the United States Air Force, exiting with the title of Staff Sargent. He served in Panama, Grenada, and Desert Shield. He also obtained many certifications and awards, including one in 1984 for "Superior marksmanship with highest AFQC score in the 308SPS in corporate memory." Fighting for our Freedom was of the utmost importance to him. He continued his service after as a Pennsylvania State Police Trooper.  He enlisted with the State Police Troop E Barracks September 26th, 1988 and retired January 9th, 2009. He was beyond proud of serving his community as a trooper starting out in patrol, working in forensics, and later retired as a Corporal. After his retirement, he worked as a security officer for Mercyhurst North East and Rise Dispensary. 

Larry loved to race and work on cars; for 21 years he was a large supporter of Lake Erie Speedway. He was known locally as "Larry Legend". He loved to travel to Michigan Speedway every August for the Nascar race as well as supporting the local racetracks. He was an avid hunter, enjoyed being outdoors and loved having a reason to sit in the woods all day. He also enjoyed the sunny days on the golf course, as well as the evenings playing on dart leagues in Erie County. Larry was a talented gunsmith, building, modifying, and fixing guns for himself and others. He readily shared his passions and knowledge with others including passing on his love and skills to his daughter who he adored. Larry had a gift; he never met a stranger and left this world with more friends than anyone can count. He could truly make anyone smile and laugh.

Survivors include his wife of 41 years, Margarete (Peggy) Tomsky Occhibone of North East, PA and his beloved daughter, Brandi Occhibone of Meadville; his brother, Bob Altman and his wife Carol of Oregon. 

In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his son, Craig Occhibone on July 29. 2008. 

Arrangements were entrusted to the Burton Quinn-Scott Cremation and Funeral Services in Erie, PA. There will be two Celebration of Life gatherings. One will be held on September 17, 2023 from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM at Shades Beach Park (Small Pavilion), 7000 E. Lake Road, Erie, PA. Another will be held on September 16, 2023 from 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM at Pearson Park (Shelter 6), 179 Pearson Park Drive, New Castle, PA.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Pennsylvania State Troopers Association Lodge #48, 11050 Eureka Road, Edinboro, PA 16412. Condolences can be sent to www.burtonquinnscott.com or Burton Quinn-Scott Cremation and Funeral Services, 3801 West 26^th Street, Erie, PA 16506.