Lorimer Edward (Larry) Whitehead, Jr

It is with sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Lorimer Edward (Larry) Whitehead Jr. on May 28, 2011. Larry was born to Harriet Walker and Lorimer Edward Whitehead Sr. on November 18, 1929 in Lewiston, Maine, and he attended Portland Schools. He joined the United States Marine Corps at 17, and served his country in active duty in the Korean War. While studying at Boston University, he met Louise Connolly, and having proposed on their third date, they married in October of 1958. Returning from active military service in 1960, Larry was employed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and completed his Bachelor of Science in Meteorology at Belknap College in 1972.Upon earning his degree, Larry resumed military service joining the Naval Reserve. Larry continued his career as a Meteorologist, retiring from NOAA in 1986, and from the military in 1987 as a Master Chief Petty Officer (US Navy) with 39 years of service to his country. Larry was an active volunteer with the Salvation Army's Meals on Wheels Program, a past member of the Willowdale Golf and Elks Clubs. He will be remembered for his desire to help, strong work ethic, and active lifestyle. He could usually be found wearing a ball hat and watching sports events at Deering High School field with his faithful companion, Duchess. Our gratitude and appreciation go out to the staff of the Maine Veterans Home in Scarborough: you took such great care of our husband and father. Larry is survived by his wife of 52 years, M. Louise (Connolly) Whitehead, sons Dr. Bruce and Alicia Whitehead of Dallas, Tx.; Dr. Charles and Denise Whitehead of Gorham, Me.; daughters Dawn Carrigan (Joel Kenniston) of Portland, Me.; and Nancy MacLellan (Michael DeCoste) of Halifax, N.S., Canada. "Papa" will be remembered by Erin, Calen, Daniel, Jeffrey, Maggie, Kathryn, Cameron, Joshua, Jennifer, Owen, and Lily. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters in law: Jane Smith, Rev. Owen Connolly, Ann Culligan, Pat Connolly (Bette), Leah Connolly, Barbara Matheson, Eileen Gillis, Mary Connolly, and his many nieces and nephews. Larry was the last surviving member of his immediate family, predeceased by his parents and siblings Tom Smith, Virginia Leary, Betty Engelke, and Janet Olsen. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, May 31st, from 4:00 to 8:00 pm, at Conroy Tully Crawford Funeral Home, 172 State Street, Portland. Prayers will be recited 10:15 am Wednesday, at the funeral home, followed by an 11:00 am Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at St. Pius X Church, 492 Ocean Avenue, Portland, Rev. Owen Connolly officiating. Following the Mass, burial will take place at Evergreen Cemetery, 672 Stevens Avenue, Portland. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Vincent de Paul Society, 307 Congress St., Portland, ME 04101.Online Condolences for Lorimer Whitehead, Jr.