Lawrence Roy Lerew

Lawrence Roy Lerew of New Cumberland, PA died November 25, 2025 at UPMC Harrisburg after a brief illness.  Larry was born November 8, 1937 in Dillsburg, He is predeceased by his parents Roy and Marguerite Lerew and his older sister, Joyce.  

Larry was a devoted and beloved husband, father, and grandfather.  Larry is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 66 years, Beverly Grove Lerew; his son Daniel Lerew of Harrisburg and daughter Amy (Craig) Helmuth of Camp Hill; his grandchildren Ian (Amanda) Lerew, Caitlin (Hillary) Lerew, Courtney (Todd) Helmuth, and Sam Helmuth; and his best buddy, great grandson Reed.  Being Reed’s Papaw gave him the greatest joy for the last 10 years, and he loved working on projects together.  His consistent presence, support, encouragement and love will be greatly missed.

Larry attended Northern York High School.  After graduating in 1955, he joined the Navy where he served as an Air Controlman Airborne Early Warning.  He loved to fly and enjoyed telling stories of his time in the service.  After the Navy, he returned home, married Bev and settled in New Cumberland to raise a family.  He learned about computers and became an expert in data management during his career with positions at CCNB, ITT Terryphone, Hempt Brothers, Dauphin Distribution, Excel Logistics and Rite Aid.  Larry was an active member of the New Cumberland Volunteer Fire Department for many years and served as President of the Relief Association which operated the ambulance service. 

Larry was an avid hobbyist. Over the years he restored an MGA sports car, built elaborate model railroads, enjoyed macrame, painting, models, jigsaw puzzles, and just about any craft.  He always had a book in his hand.  He loved history and especially liked to read about the American Revolution, the Civil War and World War II.  He knew most of the answers on Jeopardy.  He loved to cook and bake and stayed active tinkering in the garage, working in the yard, and managing his bird feeders.

Larry’s family would like to thank all of the wonderful physicians, nurses and other members of the healthcare team at UPMC Harrisburg especially the staff on the 5th and 6th floors and the med/surg ICU and the UPMC Heart and Vascular team.  He was so grateful for your care.   In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation Helping Hands Fund.