Lawrence Rice

Lawrence C. Rice, 78 of Alliance, born September 2, 1936 in Canton, died Thursday April 16, 2015 at Salem Regional Medical Center, after a very long and very hard battle with numerous health issues. Survived by his wife, Pam, with whom he shared forty-one years; two daughters Gail Rice (Danny McHenry), Karen (Jeffrey) Bryant; six grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. His first wife and mother of his children, June Yapko, also survives. In addition, three brothers, Ray Rice, Ed (Sue) Phillips, Al (Robin) Phillips; two sisters, Loretta (Willis) Kraus, Janet (Paul) Fishel, sister-in-law Barbara Rice, sisters-in-law Janet Fitzgibbon, Georgia Fitzgibbon, Patsy Hidinger, Pegi (Ken) Butler; brother-in-law Perry (Laurie) Fitzgibbon, many nieces and nephews and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Mary and Ed Phillips, father, Lawrence C. Rice Sr., mother and father-in-law Pearl and Patrick Fitzgibbon, brother Ron Rice, sister Mary Lou Wright, brothers-in-law Paul Fitzgibbon and Pat Fitzgibbon and sister-in-law Polly Farris.
Larry served in the United State Air Force, stationed in Dustin, Northampton, England, where he met June. Several of her family also survive and always thought of Larry as family, visiting whenever they came from England. Larry was a master optician, owned and operated Rice Optical Inc. for many years with Pam. He was an avid bowler, bowling three times a week up until a month before his latest illness. Larry loved to travel and he and Pam found their favorite vacation spot in San Diego. Sadly missed by his best buddy, Kujo and his sweetest girl, Bebe. He lost his other dog friend, Judy in February and was deeply missing her prior to his latest health challenge.
Memorial contributions in his honor may be made to Ohio Greyhound Gathering and Adoption, c/o Wendy Eaton, Viking Community Animal Hospital, 434 North Main St., North Canton, OH 44720. (myogga.org)
At Larry’s request, there will be no calling hours or services. Cremation will take place. Friends may send condolences and sign the guest register online at www.grfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are by Gednetz-Ruzek Funeral Home Sebring, OH (330) 938-2526.