Larry Gene Wilson

Larry Gene Wilson, 76, long-time resident of Lake Kiowa, TX, passed away peacefully at home with his beloved wife, Catherine and daughter, Wendy, at his side.

Larry was born on January 13, 1947, in Canton, Ohio. He spent his childhood days with his brothers, Gary, and Bill, jumping off of boxcars, playing baseball and sneaking friends into the local swimming pool. He was a source of joy and pride to his mother, Edna and father, Bill, Sr. After graduating from Perry High School, he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served as a medic. He reached the rank of Sergeant before being honorably discharged. His subsequent membership in the American Legion and status as a Veteran was a source of pride and satisfaction throughout his life.

Larry literally stopped in his tracks when he first saw Cathy, upon which he asked her to dance, and the rest is history. After dating briefly and getting engaged on their 4th date, they married one year later in 1969. They resided for 6 years in Ohio, and by 1975, he graduated from Kent State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration.

Larry and Cathy traded the brutal Ohio winters for the warm Texas sun in 1976, and Larry began his career at Emplorer’s Insurance of Texas followed by ANCO Insurance. He also got his CPCU designations in insurance and taught classes at El Centro College, Dallas. Later he co-founded Atlas General Agency in Hurst, TX, where he worked until his retirement.

After finding the perfect place to retire - a house on the 14th green of the Lake Kiowa Golf Course - Larry filled his days pursuing his lifelong passion for golf. Larry could be found on the course with Cathy and friends several days a week. Larry accomplished what most golfers can only dream of - he hit a hole-in-one twice and was a two-time Master’s Champion…spectator.

Throughout their more than 54 years of marriage, Larry and Cathy built a life of love, adventures, and wonderful memories. Larry enjoyed boating, water sports, traveling, and visiting friends and relatives. As his family grew, Larry enjoyed spending time with Wendy, her husband, and his three grandchildren by often going on vacation/trips together, attending the kids’ activities and playing dominoes.

Larry was known for his keen intellect, twinkle in his eye and his sense of humor. Larry was generous and honest, often opening his home and his boat to family and friends. He never shied away from completing huge projects with Cathy including building a deck, rebuilding a truck engine, building a queen-size bunk bed out of 2x4s, and remodeling a house from the studs. Also, he and Cathy visited all 50 states and their Capitol buildings over the course of seven years.

Larry was driven and persistent. He completed two marathons in his 40s. He also knew how to enjoy a fine cigar and a smooth whiskey. Larry enjoyed the experience of a nice meal with loved ones and friends. He laughed in the face of discounts and insisted on paying full retail when entertaining or bestowing gifts.

The world lost a good man with his passing, and he will be missed by his family and friends. For those who play golf, we might think of him and smile whenever we play a round with a Wilson golf ball. He’ll be cheering us on from the eternal 19th Hole.

Family Who Went Before

Larry was predeceased by his mother, Edna Repp, stepfather, William Repp, Sr, and sister, Donna Wilson.

Family He Left Behind

He is survived by wife Catherine (Horvath) Wilson, daughter Wendy (Wilson) Stiles, son-in-law Christopher Stiles and grandchildren Jackson, Emily, and Kathryn Stiles.

He also leaves behind his brother Gary Wilson and wife Joan, and brother William Repp, Jr, as well as their extended families.

According to Larry's wishes, there will be military honors at the National Cemetery in Dallas, TX on Friday, October 13th at 1:15 p.m. and a Celebration of Life held in Lake Kiowa, TX on Sunday, October 15th at 2 p.m.

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