Lawrence Ronald Field, longtime resident of Elmhurst, passed away Tuesday, December 1 at the age of 86. He was born in Louisville, Ky., on March 14, 1934 before moving to Chicago at the age of 3. He was the devoted husband of Ruth Field for 58 years, loving father of David (Sherri) Field, Mary (Michael) Gowan and Jennifer (William) Bowhill, and adored grandfather, of Joseph (Sheri), Molly, Betsy and Sam Field; Thomas (Taylor) and Anne Gowan; and Sarah and William Bowhill. He was predeceased by his parents Ingram and Laura and his brothers Robert and Arnold.
Larry graduated from Roosevelt University with a degree in chemical engineering. He went on to start his own company, Great Lakes Environmental, Inc. He was a pioneer in providing pollution control systems, helping industries comply to the expanded clean water act and protecting the environment. He was well-respected for his solutions and integrity within the wastewater treatment industry. He always made time to speak with employees, customers, vendors and friends. He always had good information to share and a story to tell.
Affectionately called Bompa by his grandchildren, Larry loved to spend time with his family. He was also a lover of dogs and an avid fisherman. Nothing made him happier than his annual fishing trips to the upper peninsula of Michigan with his wife, children, grandchildren and a few dogs in tow. In the winter, he enjoyed quieter fishing trips to Cocoa Beach, Fla.
Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations would be appreciated to the JDRF, 1 East Wacker Dr., Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60602 or www.jdrf.org. Arrangements entrusted to Pedersen Ryberg Funeral Home 630-834-1133 or pedersenryberg.com
