Lawrence (Larry) Peter Zimbelman, 81, passed away on April 30, 2014. He was born April 14, 1933 in Aurora, IL to Alice and Edward Zimbelman. He graduated from Austin High School in Chicago, and then served in the USAF from 1950 through 1954 where he was stationed in Yakota Japan as an instrument technician on the B-29 bomber at the end of the Korean conflict. He returned to Southern California where he joined Convair Aircraft with a top secret security clearance as the instrument installation specialist on the then secret F-102 fighter jet program and its initial flight testing. In 1962 he joined Sundstrand Aviation in Denver, CO where he met his bride to be Bette (Betsy). After marrying in 1967, they transferred to Rockford where Larry continued to work for Sundstrand ATG in the Turbine Systems Research Laboratory until his retirement in 1991. Larry was a member of the Freeport Scottish Rite as a 32nd Degree Mason, and as a Tebala Shrine Clown (Zimbo). He had a love of nature and was an avid fisherman participating in many tournaments and holding a number of biggest fish titles. Living in Davis Junction, he was a regular around the Stillman Valley area where he was a big fan of Stillman Valley high school sports. Larry was preceded in death by his parents and older brother Edward Zimbelman (CA). He is survived by his wife Betsy, son Fred and daughter-in-law Patricia of Tulsa, OK, and grandson Ryan of Seattle, WA. Larry was known for his quick wit, humor, and big heart. He was blessed with many friends and will be surely missed by all. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services assisted the family with arrangements. To share a memory or condolence go to graceFH.com.