Lawrence William Wherley

ROCKFORD - Lawrence William “Larry” Wherley, age 85, of Machesney Park, IL passed away on the morning of Friday, March 27, 2026. Beneath a clear and brightest blue sky Larry left his earthly bounds to receive his eternal wings. Born in Rockford, IL on October 16, 1940 to Bertha (Smyth) Wherley and Reuben Guenther Wherley – ninth of 10 children – his life was shaped by a strong sense of family. He attended Lutheran Church where he sang in the choir and learned to play hymns on the piano that set an early foundation for a life-long love of music. Larry stood out for his friendly disposition, and fiercely optimistic outlook. He possessed a dry sense of humor and a great gift of conversation. He was creative and cultured with diverse interests in music, the arts, history and science. In school he was also an athletic swimmer, avid reader and a young man who had dreams to pursue a career in Medicine upon graduating from Edina High School in Minnesota.

Lawrence reported for military duty to the U.S. Air Force at the start of the Vietnam War where he received training in Mechanics and Repair of Aircraft. Serving his country was the one experience he was most proud of although he rarely spoke of it. He found an outlet to keep his creativity and inner melody alive by becoming an accomplished dance instructor with Arthur Murray Dance Studios mastering dozens of famous ballroom and Latin dances. It was there he met John “Jack” Denny with whom he shared his life for 47 years. After returning to civilian life Larry worked in Mechanical Engineering and then became general manager of the specialty auto parts shop, Warshawsky’s Muffler Shop, operating it with care and expertise for 52 years. His loyal dedication to his work so contributed to the shop’s longevity that the owner came to regard him like another son. Whether you wanted to add that awesome growl to your ride, or just needed a part nobody else could find, Larry was the man people trusted. Cars weren’t just work to him — they were part of his personality, craftsmanship and connection to the community.

Larry was “Old School Class meets Modern Cool”. Together he and Jack built a life filled with loving companionship, music and entertaining for family and friends at the midlife dream home they designed together. Their award-winning yard featured Classical Roman influence with gazebos, fountains, large statuary and brilliant flower gardens. Larry was a gourmet food connoisseur but never gave up his quest to find the #1 Best Hamburger. His family knew him for his delectable Lemon Meringue pies baked specially for the annual family reunion picnic. A person got wise to get the pie first. He enjoyed visiting family and catching up over a pot or two of good, strong coffee. He loved taking road trips just to drive – usually in his pride and joy - his golden Lincoln Continental.

He’d always say he didn’t believe in getting sick. A man of faith and conviction Larry faced the later years of his life with courage and the same independent spirit that defined him all his life. Declining a life-extending procedure, he bravely said, “I only want to live until the Good Lord takes me”. Larry leaves behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, patriotism, perseverance and love.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to his special caregivers who made it possible for him to live in his home until his last few months. We also express gratitude to Anam Care Assisted Living and Northern Illinois Hospice for their compassionate care and support the last 2-1/2 months of his life. A special mention goes to his support friends Colonel, and David.

He’s predeceased by his life companion, Jack; his parents; siblings; and several nieces and nephews. He’s survived by many nieces, nephews; and grand nieces and nephews. Cremation arrangements provided by Christenson Funeral Home. He’ll be laid to rest next to Jack for eternal peace in a private inurnment ceremony at Sunset Memorial Gardens Mausoleum in Machesney Park with Veteran Honors.

As a celebration of his life please remember Larry when you plant a radiant bloom or tree, hear an old dance song, or share some coffee with a friend. In those moments, his spirit will surely be near. Our Uncle Larry is deeply missed, warmly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of all who knew him.

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