Larry James Olexiuk
March 17, 1947 – December 28, 2017
Larry lost his battle with cancer at the Foyer Lacombe Hospice in St. Albert AB.
Larry will be missed by his bride Colleen (McLeod) of 50 years, Son Brett (Paula), grandchildren Connor and Brooklyn, sisters Lorraine, Donna (Carl) and June.
Larry cultivated friendships over his entire life. He was a true friend, prankster, with a wicked sense of humour.
Larry was a Chartered Account and retired from CIBC Wood Gundy as an investment broker. Larry’s passion was football. He spent 50 years of his life on the field, teaching young men not just how to be better football players but how to be better men. He will be fondly remembered by many as Coach “O”.
Celebration of Life
2:00PM Saturday January 13, 2018
North Pointe Community Church,
14025 167 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB
Memorial Donation
Hope Mission of Edmonton
It is with great sadness that I write this condolence for my cousin Larry’s family. I fondly remember the times we spent as kids at his mom’s home in Riverdale and those we spent on our Baba’s farm in Vilna. Then our jointly cherished shared memories of our roots trip to the Ukraine to see where our great grandparents grew up and to meet our many cousins there. It was a memorable trip for us. I can attest to Larry’s long love affair with football as I vividly remember the many football pennants that adorned the walls of his teenage bedroom. He was so proud to share the story of each one and the important place of every pennant in his growing collection with his curious cousin. His wicked sense of humour was enjoyed by all and often eased the consequences we had for various childhood misdeeds we committed especially with Uncle Fred on the farm. Larry throughout his life, kept in contact with my mom, his Aunt Lil. She too is saddened by his departure and sends her love to his family. Even though we were separated by geography as we lived thousands of miles apart, I shall miss you. So RIP and I take comfort from knowing that heaven ihas just become a livelier place now that you are reunited with your mom, my Aunt Mary. Let the good times roll in heaven. Love to the family at this difficult time and always, Marian.
Almost 4 decades after leaving high school, Larry invited the 3 of us to join him and Colleen for lunch in August as they passed through Vancouver on their return trip from Vancouver Island. It became a yearly ritual that was a highlight of our summers. The 3 of us, Larry’s ‘West Coast Ladies’, looked forward to hearing new, hilarious stories of their adventures that had us laughing for days. Such a mischief maker was Larry! One of his most redeeming qualities – but not the most powerful. His deeply generous and caring heart is what makes him stand out amongst a sea of ordinary people. I can only imagine the vast numbers of people who have been the recipients of his quiet kindness, generosity and support when it was badly needed – in big and small ways – and most importantly – without any fanfare. The world needs more Larrys. The 2nd Saturday in August is just not going to be the same from now on. Our hearts are with you and your family, Colleen. All our love, Your West Coast Ladies: Connie, Dale and Wendy
My late husband was Ron Janzen who had many adventures and laughs with Larry & the boys (Jim, Frankie etc). I am very sorry to hear of Larry’s recent death, he will be missed by many.
Christy Janzen
So sorry to hear of your great loss! Larry was a great source of encouragement to me during our time at Touché Ross. My condolences to you and your family as you mourn the loss of this wonderful individual!
So many great memories from so many years ago & with such a positive impact, who could ever forget him? Such an amazing man who leaves such an amazing legacy!! My sincere sympathies to Colleen, Brett & family!
My condolences — many fine HS memories of Colleen and Larry
Joseph Pro for
WHITE ROCK
Bc
Larry was my uncle, we was one of the best men I ever met. Love you uncle Larry,wish these last years could have been different! Rest well.
Coach ‘O’ was a legend on our team. He had the wisdom of a person who had lived many lives, and compassion beyond measuring. Coach ‘O’ was sincere in his interaction with all athletes, coaches and everyone he spent time with. Playing for Coach ‘O’ was more than fun. We felt proud to work hard for him and he made us feel special, even when we fell down. Those around him learned what real dedication and commitment looked and felt like. A few of us had the pleasure of not only playing for him, but Coaching with him as well! Moments spent with Coach ‘O’ on and off the field were unforgettable. Whether it was learning how to read opponents on the field, or hearing his words wisdom over a good meal afterwards, he was always willing to help. Thanks Coach ‘O’ for being a father to so many young men and women. We are blessed to you have you in our lives. I promise to carry on your legacy by doing good things for the next generation in your name.
I feel so blessed to have met both you and Larry. I thank you so much for letting us be a part of your summer vacation in Qualicum. Anytime I play cards and have a drink sitting by the ocean…I will always hear Larry’s voice. He had a way of making us feel welcome, making us laugh and making sure we had fun. He will be greatly missed by my family and I. My heart goes out to you Colleen.
Larry was a wonderful and generous football man – played under him and the adorable Gambler Bob Brayman in the early 90’s.
A warm and funny man, always remember his claim as an old QB was that the back of his head was so flat because of taking blind side hits due to negligent offensive linemen. Larry changed the trajectory of many young men’s lives, including my own and was the epitome of class.
Bless you, Coach O.