Larry Allen Schnurpel

Larry Allen Schnurpel, was born one of five children, to Russell Eugene and Sarah E. Schnurpel, February 4, 1959 in Brazil, Indiana.

“Little Larry,” as he was called by his siblings was quite an adventuresome, precocious young boy, loving baseball, football and basketball. Larry developed a passion for reading and a love for chess. At the age of twelve, “Little Larry,” challenged his father and brother in a game of chess and astonished them all with an overwhelming victory. His other interests included cycling, ping pong and bowling.

Larry and family moved from Indiana to Ontario, California where he attended Chaffey High School. Upon graduation, Larry enlisted in the United States Army serving his country proudly. He was proud of his accomplishments, having two tours as well as the National Guard. “Little Larry,” also served as a Volunteer Fireman in Aztec, New Mexico.

Larry was joined in matrimony to Sonya Hickland, on August 23, 1988. Larry and Sonya would have shared 32 loving years together if not for his sudden passing.

“Little Larry,” pursued and earned a degree in Electronics as well as Food Inspection. He was employed with the State of Alabama Department of Agriculture as a Food Safety Protection Specialist, until his retirement in 2015.

Larry was called by God to the Gospel Ministry and was ordained in 2014 and faithfully served. He was a pillar of courage and strength during difficult times and never met a stranger. Larry was greatest at sharing his love and faith for the Lord, sharing bible verses, singing gospel songs and rejoicing in his knowledge that one day he will be in the arms of God. 

Larry departed his life on Friday, August 21, 2020 and he now rests in the shadow of the Almighty.

Larry was preceded in death by parents Russell and Sarah Schnurpel and brother Russell Eugene Schnurpel II. He is survived by his loving wife, Sonya Hickland Schnurpel; his siblings, sister Janet K. Recknor-Schnurpel, brother Charles E. Schnurpel (Marty), sister Rhonda S. White (Chris), many nieces and nephews and a host of relatives and friends.

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