- The Carillon Passages
- All Titles
Search:
Notices are posted by 10 am Monday through Saturday
LAWRENCE (LARRY) ROBERT HODKINSON
Born: Aug 15, 1942
Date of Passing: Nov 18, 2023
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryLAWRENCE (LARRY) ROBERT HODKINSON
Born in Calgary, Alberta
Larry passed away suddenly but peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, November 18, 2023. Larry was a beloved husband, father, grandpa and friend whose memory will forever be etched in our hearts.
Larry is survived by his loving wife Janice (nee Starosilec); daughter Kristin (Ryan); son Craig (Jen); grandchildren, Halle, Hugh, Rommel and Rakari.
Larry grew up in Winnipeg and went to Churchill High School where he became a provincial champion sprinter. He also played volleyball, basketball and soccer. After high school graduation, Larry attended Teacher’s College. His first year of teaching was in Boissevain followed by two years at Sisler. Larry then attended University of Manitoba’s physical education three year degree program where he played on the Bison Football team.
After 28 years at Vincent Massey Collegiate, Larry retired in 1998. He was pleased to get the best parking spot (by the doors) after being there so long. Over his career at VMC he coached soccer, freshman volleyball, wrestling, cross country running and skiing but his passions were basketball and track and field. During his coaching career, Larry coached over 100 teams at the school and community levels. "Light the Fire!!" was heard in gymnasiums/rinks/fields throughout the province.
Larry was an avid sports fan. He was a 25 year season ticket holder for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and always looked forward to going to the home games with Craig and Ryan. Larry was so looking forward to watching the Bombers in the 2023 Grey Cup game. He also attended and followed Jets games faithfully.
Larry was a kind, patient, non-judgmental and optimistic coach who was proud of all his student’s accomplishments both small and large. He loved Hellebuyck’s recent news interview saying it was amazing what you can accomplish if you, “work hard, work smart and believe in yourself”.
After retiring, Larry found some free time, so he learned to play “bridge” at the Charleswood Senior Center and every week with his great friends, Frank, Rudy, Warren and Brian. He also enjoyed monthly lunches with the ‘Massey retirees’. They had lots of stories to tell.
All four of his grandchildren brought him great joy. He got to spend lots of time with them at the family cottage. He was interested and pleased to watch them in their own sports journeys.
He travelled with his wife of 53 years, Janice, on several interesting European bus and cruise trips. He was loved and will be missed!
As requested by Larry, no formal service will be held.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 25, 2023, Nov 25, 2023
Condolences & Memories (3 entries)
-
I was one of those teens who didn't really like gym class, but "Mr. Hod" made a real effort to include me and the kids like me. I didn't know him well, but he made a lasting impression as one of the good teachers who made an effort. Condolences to his family and friends. - Posted by: Derek D'Espins (Student) on: Dec 03, 2023
-
I was so pleased when Larry told me when I was in high school that I could call him by his nickname. That was until he said his nickname was Sir. I think I was in grade three in 1967 when we first met. He was a leader at the University of Manitoba Physical Education Camps and I was a keen little runner. A few years later my mother invited him to talk to my Wolf Cub pack about “fitness and fun.” I was so proud to know such a neat guy. Through volunteer work I have come to realize that Larry was years ahead of the game teaching “life sports” rather than traditional team sports in gym class. I am sure I have told others about his visionary ways hundreds of times in my life. I surely didn’t coach 100 teams in my life but I have done my fair share and it was always felt like a tribute to how “Hod” invested in me both as a runner and later on running the hardwood. Rest In Peace, Sir. - Posted by: Glenn Morison (Former Student) on: Nov 30, 2023
-
So sorry to hear of Larry's passing. We enjoyed a number of seasons together sitting behind Craig, Ryan and Larry at the Bomber games. It was always fun Larry, to see that you enjoyed the Bomber games so much and particularly the western final. It was great to get reacquainted with my track coach from junior high from so many years ago. Shelagh and I will miss you next season. Go Bombers! - Posted by: Rod & Shelagh (student and fellow Bomber fan) on: Nov 26, 2023
