He is survived by two children, Michael (Lynette) Cecil of Farmington and Kristy Harris of Peoria; six grandchildren, Maggie (David) Connell and Jonah Cecil, both of Farmington, Alexis Harris of Peoria, Cassie (Chris Steder) Cecil of Monroe Center, Samantha (Ty) Cornmesser of LaGrange, Ky., and Andrew (Ashley) Cecil of Rochelle; two step-grandchildren, Roger Teel of Monmouth and T.J. Chesnut of Vienna, W.Va.; and two great-grandchildren, Michael and Echo Cecil. Also surviving are his sister, Patricia Simac of Canton and his twin brother, Jerry Cecil of Springfield, Ohio.
He was preceded in death by one son, Craig Cecil of Peoria; and his parents of Middle Grove.
Larry was born Jan. 13, 1942, at Methodist Hospital in Peoria to Roger and Marita Cecil. His mother was surprised to learn she was having twins when her first son arrived. An hour later, Larry entered the world. For many years after, he and his brother held the record for heaviest twins born there -- totaling about 18 pounds.
Larry worked as a railroad car inspector for more than 42 years, mostly for the TP&W in Canton. He retired at age 60 and said he enjoyed snowy days, knowing he no longer had to get up early and "walk the tracks."
"Late-night Larry" was how he was known to friends at the VFW Post, which was his favorite (and only) place to hang out. They knew to expect him a few times each week -- precisely at 7:30 p.m. -- and often staying till late in the evening, especially if beloved friends Gary and Lana were there. Though not a veteran himself, Larry always sported a VFW cap and loved all those who served in the military. He spent countless hours volunteering for "the V," selling hams and tickets to steak dinners and fish frys, as well as passing out poppies to those who donated.
Larry was an outstanding cook and usually brought requested favorites, scalloped potatoes and chicken & noodles, to all family gatherings. And no dinner was complete without one of his pies.
He also was an avid fan of the Cubs and Bears, and a 47-year member of the Moose Lodge in Canton and Pekin.
Visitation will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Friday, July 26, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Canton, with services immediately after at 5 p.m. He will be buried later beside his parents at Elmwood Township Cemetery in Elmwood.
Memorials may be made to VFW Post 1984 in Canton.
To leave online condolences please visit, oakshinesfuneralhome.com
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