ELKHART -- Carlton L. "Larry" Sears, 72, of Elkhart, passed away at 9:05 a.m. on Friday (Feb. 4, 2011) at Elkhart General Hospital from a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born April 13, 1938, in Huntington to the late Kenneth L. and Bertha E. (Lopp) Sears. Larry married Judith E. Herzog Oct. 29, 1960, in Huntington.

Surviving are his wife, Judy E. Sears of Elkhart; sons Chris (Suzanne) and Craig (Karen) Sears of Elkhart and Scott (Sandy) Sears of Sarasota, Fla.; and his daughter, Amy (Mark) Chapman of Elkhart; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; as well as brothers the Rev. Ken (Carolyn) Sears of Indianapolis, Steve (SueAnne) Sears of Mishawaka and Fred (Debi) Sears of Colorado Springs, Colo.

Larry worked for Elkhart Public Works for close to 30 years. He was a 1957 graduate of Union Township High School and served in the United States Air Force in the Wyoming and Indiana National Guard. Larry was a member of Granger Missionary Church and was always there to lend a hand to those in need. He was an avid Bears fan, enjoyed wintering in Bradenton, and loved to spend time with and spoil his grandchildren.

Please join with his family as his life is celebrated at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 8, 2011, at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart. Friends may call for one hour prior to the service. Pastor Robert Coy, a close family friend, will officiate. Military honors will be rendered after the service by the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard. In keeping with Larry's wishes, cremation has taken place.

Memorials may be given to Ribbon of Hope, 600 East Blvd. Elkhart, IN 46514.

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