Larry Dwayne Ancil, 81, of Upland, passed away at home on Sunday, May 15, 2022 after a five month battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born in Sweetser, IN at home to Joe and Blanche (Bowman) Ancil on October 5, 1940. He was a 1958 graduate of Mississinewa High School. In August of 1958, he joined the US Navy, serving on the USS Putnam DD757, touring the Mediterranean Sea, and was honorably discharged in 1961. In 1978, Larry married Susan (Willhide); they were partners for nearly 44 years “Till death do us part.”
Larry was a self-employed painting and wallpapering contractor. He was called “the last of the artisans”, and followed his grandfather and father in this trade. He was well-trusted in customer’s homes, and carried keys to many a home in Marion. He was a regular coffee drinker at Kyle’s Paints, and had many friends there.
Larry was an excellent fly fisherman, and loved fishing at the family cottage on Palestine Lake. He also loved their country home, and enjoyed raising and entertaining grandchildren there, as well as rarely missing a soccer match. He was an animal lover, caring for many stray cats and dogs over the years. He is survived by beloved dogs, Polly and Pepper.
Larry will be forever loved and missed by wife, Susan, sons David Ancil, St. Augustine, Florida, and Doug Ancil, Sweden, daughter Jennifer Steele-Payne, Upland, son Andrew Preston and daughter-in-law Tammy Preston, Upland, and former son-in-law Stephen Payne, Gas City. Also missing ‘’Grampy’’ will be Jacob Steele, Charlie Steele, William Payne, Luke Payne, Kimberlee Preston, Abby Preston, and Andy Preston, all of Upland, and Marshal Hettinger, California.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother Jay (Martha) Ancil, sisters Priscilla (Bill) Romine, Deloris (Sid) Stratton, and Arlene (John) Berry.
Per his wishes, there will be no services or celebration of life. His birthday was lovingly honored at each decade since his 40th with family and friends. You may honor his life and love of animals by donating to Marion-Grant County Humane Society (505 S. Miller Ave., Marion, IN 46953). A private family gathering will occur at Marion National Cemetery at a later date, where his remains will be laid.
Special thanks to Marion VA Hospital, Marion Health 5th Floor, Anderson Community Cancer Care, and Heart to Heart Hospice for their help and support to Susan and their loving care of Larry.