SMITH LAWRENCE B

CW2 Lawrence "Larry" B. Smith was a VHPA member who died after his tour in Vietnam on 09/12/2023 at the age of 77.3
Franklin, WI
Flight Class 69-13
Date of Birth 05/16/1946
Served in the U.S. Army
Served in Vietnam with 118 AHC in 69-70
Call sign in Vietnam THUNDERBIRD 10
This information was provided by Zina Mussman

More detail on this person: Lawrence Bruce Smith, known affectionately as Larry to his friends and family, was born to eternal life on December 9, 2023, in Milwaukee, WI, at the age of 77. Born on May 16, 1946, in Camp Lee, VA, Larry's life was a testament to his faith, courage, bravery, love and kindness that touched all who knew him. Larry's life was marked by his unwavering dedication to his family. He was a devoted and beloved husband to his wife, Christine, with whom he shared 35 years of marriage filled with mutual respect, laughter, and an abundance of love. Larry was a caring father to his children, Ian (Stella) Smith, Nathaniel (Lai) Smith, and Zina (Rachel) Mussmann. He was the proud grandfather of Katie, Paige, and Joey. He is also survived by his sister, Katherine (Tom) Janego, brother, Paul (Song O) Smith and sister, Nancy (Mandeville) Smith who will miss his kindness and compassion, along with numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. Their memories together will be treasured forever. As a young college graduate, Larry chose to join the United States Army to become a Warrant Officer. He served his country as a Huey helicopter pilot (call sign Thunderbird 10) during the Vietnam War and earned the Bronze Star Medal. Throughout his life, Larry chose to do the right thing, as opposed to the easy thing. Larry will be remembered for his zest for life, positivity, and resilience. In honor of Larry, a Memorial Gathering will be held at St Stephens Catholic Church, 1441 W Oakwood Rd, Oak Creek, WI 53154, on Friday January 5, from 9 AM to 10:45 AM with Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM. Burial with military honors to follow at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 21731 Spring St, Union Grove, WI 53182, at 2PM and dinner to follow at Aud Mar Banquet Hall, S79W15851 Aud Mar Dr, Muskego, WI 53150, at 4 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Larry's name to Disabled Vets of America. https://www.dav.org/ways-to-give/

Burial information: Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery

This information was last updated 12/18/2023

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Date posted on this site: 10/13/2025