Lawrence Thomas Messick Sr., retired educator, musician

Lawrence Thomas Messick Sr., 94, of Rehoboth Beach, formerly of Wilmington, died Saturday, July 23, 2016, at home surrounded by his loving family.

Larry was born in Clarksboro, N.J., to Arthur Benjamin Franklin Messick and his wife Teresa Holsinger Messick. His siblings Beatrice, Franklin, Robert and Janice predeceased him.

He graduated from Swedesboro High School in 1939 where he was an accomplished trumpet player. While working for his father's home building business to earn money for medical school he was drafted into the Army. He was part of the force liberating France, landing on Utah Beach, Normandy. After serving in the Signal Corps he was chosen to play in Gen. George Patton's band where he completed his military service.

Returning to Temple University, he graduated in 1950 with an education degree, and then the University of Pennsylvania for his master's of education. Larry became a music educator and director of the Wilmington All-City Orchestra. He retired from teaching in 1977.

For a second career, Larry built custom homes for clients throughout Delaware. He pursued his passion for music with his Dixieland band. Avidly interested in civic causes, he served as chairman of the Board of Elections. After losing a close election to Joe Biden in 1970 for New Castle County Council, it was a source of pride that they remained friends over the years capped by a memorable visit with Joe to the White House in May.

Larry Messick was a gentleman. Until the day he died, he possessed intellectual curiosity, resourcefulness and optimism. He was a participant rather than an observer of life. He was a sweet and caring all-around good guy.

Larry is survived by his devoted wife and most cherished best friend, Blanche Pack Messick; and their children Andrea Scott and her husband Rodney, Daniel Stokes and his wife Susan Henderson, Mimi Otto and her husband Thomas, Valarie Elliott and her husband Richard, and L. Thomas Messick Jr. and his wife Alice Bennett; and grandchildren Megan Martz, Peter Martz, Molly Scott, Nat Scott, Susanna Gewirtz, Katherine Stokes, Nick Stokes, Dr. Alex Otto Newhook, Tyler Messick and Victoria Messick; and six great-grandchildren.

Larry was a member of the Unitarian Universalist Church. A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday Aug. 11, at 11 a.m., at Rehoboth Beach Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the Beau Biden Foundation for the Protection of Children or Delaware Hospice.

Arrangements handled by Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Lewes.

Please visit Mr. Messick's Life Memorial Tribute Page and sign the online guestbook at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.