Larry Gioe, 79, died at St. Vincent Hospice Inpatient Unit surrounded by his family on December 25, 2016. He was a lifetime resident of Indianapolis and was born at Methodist Hospital August 30, 1937. He was preceded in death by his mother Melva June Holcomb Gioe, his father Lawrence Clemente Gioe, two nieces Melissa Raye and Michelle Renee Orfait.
He is survived by his wife Lela Ann “Annie” Blick McCarthy Gioe and son Anthony “Tony” Jason Gioe. Sister, Patricia Orfait Shreve, brother David W. Gioe (Barbara). Nephew Michael “Mike” Orfait and great nephew and great niece – Michael and Katie Orfait.
He graduated from Warren Central High School Class of 1956.
Larry’s first love was cars, driving and racing. He was an avid Enduro Go-Karter for many years, racing at tracks across the country, receiving the Jim Clark Memorial Award given by the International Karting Federation (IKF) for excellence in Motor Sports in 1976. In earlier years he co-owned stock cars and raced at Kitley. He ran his first go-kart race at Whiteland Raceway in 1961. When he was not racing he was an avid Indy Car and Stock Car fan.
He was a member of Boy Scout Troop 121 and his father was Scout Master. He also bowled on a league for many years.
One of Larry’s first jobs was working with his father, delivering dry cleaning. He also worked at Comet Kart Sales in Greenfield, Western Electric, Trailmobile and Cabinets by Nichols in Bargersville where he retired.
Things he loved included mowing the lawn, woodworking, apricot pie, and most of all his sisters spaghetti and meatballs, and Emma the Cat.
He came from a large Italian family with many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Thank you to his family doctor, Dr. DeSanto and his wonderful staff; Community Hospital East; and St. Vincent Hospice In-patient Unit. With the assistance of Dr. Buran, staff and volunteers at Hospice, he was at peace and free of pain.
Donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
The family will greet friends at Indiana Funeral Care, 8151 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis , on January 7, 2017 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm with a Celebration of Life service to be conducted at 1:00 pm.
Ann Giles says
Lyle and I had great times with Larry in the Indianapolis Kart Club years ago. Now he is “bench racing” with Lyle, John Strauser, and other good old go kart racers. My best to you, Annie and family.
Evelyn Messick says
Dear Annie and Tony,
It came as a complete shock to learn of Larry’s death. My heart grieves for you and all your family. Larry was a wonderfully sweet, kind dear man who was just so very likeable in every way. My family and I send our condolences to you. I am currently in a rehab facility and unable to attend the service tomorrow; however, I will try to reach you when I am released. May God give you peace and sustain you in your time of grief. With love, Evelyn Messick
LeRoy & Carol Mackey says
LeRoy and I would like to send our love and thoughts to Annie and Tony. Think of you often, but have not kept in touch since we moved to Texas. Would love to have an address where we could talk to you Annie. Our love and prayers for your and Tonu’s comfort