February 27, 1939 - October 5, 2024
Cincinnati Ohio | Age 85
COL(R) Lawrence "Larry" R. Verne passed away on October 5, 2024, at the age of 85. Born in 1939 to Julian and Beatrice (DeCenzo) Verne in Columbus, Ohio, Larry was the beloved husband of Kathleen Bresnen Verne (nee Gallagher). He was the loving father of Tommy, Jennifer (Edward) Perry, Sean Bresnen, Angela (Tracey) Dwire, Robert (Angela), Michael (Bethany) Bresnen, and Molly (Adam) Zuckerberg, and a proud grandfather “Poppy” to Henry, George, Luke, Haley, DJ, Sam, Charlie, Lily, and Maria. Larry is also survived by his brother Tom (Kathy) and sister Julie (Bill) Orr, and was cherished by many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his brother David and David's wife, Pam.
Larry and Kathleen married in 1986 and lovingly raised a blended family of seven children. A 1956 graduate of Linden McKinley High School, where he played alto sax and was a member of the dance band, Larry went on to attend Ohio State University and became a lifelong, devoted fan—despite only attending for one year and eventually earning his degree from the University of Cincinnati. In 1960, Larry began a 34-year career with the United States Army, where his deep passion for military service flourished. He served with distinction in various command and staff roles, proudly becoming a Green Beret and retiring as a Colonel. Larry cherished the bonds he formed with lifelong friends, especially from the Army, and maintained close connections throughout his life. His faith in God was unwavering, as was his devotion to his family, which remained his greatest love.
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 11, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM at Gilligan Funeral Home, 8225 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45236. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM at All Saints Catholic Church, 8939 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45236. Upon the conclusion of the Mass, a Military Honors ceremony will take place outside the church. Larry will be cremated with his remains inurned at a later date, in a private ceremony for immediate family, at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 11000 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45249.
In lieu of flowers, family suggests contributions to: Green Beret Foundation, PO Box 498985, Cincinnati, Ohio, or St. Joseph’s Indian School, PO Box 326, Chamberlain, SD 57326.