Lawrence J. Cirrito

Lawrence Joseph ‘Larry’ Cirrito ran into the arms of his Savior on Saturday, August 28, 2021 at 88 years young. He was surrounded by his family at home when he went to the place prepared for him in heaven. Born in Niagara Falls, NY on September 20, 1932 to the late Nelson and Hattie Cirrito. Larry is one of multiple siblings, eighteen in fact!

He was predeceased by siblings, Edith (late Ansel) Mitchell, Dominick (late Mary) Cirrito, Carmella (late William) Baskin, Salvatore Cirrito, Nelson (Molly) Cirrito, James Cirrito, Patrick Cirrito, Joseph Cirrito, Mary (Clarence) Szeles, Phyllis (Ronald) Schiro and Louis Cirrito and his boys, Johnny (Anne) Morris, Larry Cirrito and Christopher Cirrito

He is survived by his beloved wife, Chris; siblings, Lorraine (late Tom) Mac Queen, Joseph (late Barb) Cirrito, Patricia (Alan) Bishop, Anthony (Ruth) Cirrito, Ernest (Janis) Cirrito and Josephine (late James) Needham; children, Cheryl Shanks, Robin (late Jerald) Brydges, Lori (late Nicolas) Martinucci, Joseph (fiancée Cassie Fisher) Cirrito, Jacqueline (Michael) Giszter, Paul (Linda) Cirrito and Michael (late Jennifer) Cirrito.

Larry attended local schools until 8th grade when he quit to work for his father at Nelson Roofing helping to support his family. Anyone that knows Larry, knows his love for family is everything. He met the love of his life, Earnestine (better known as Chris), at Rainbow Roller Rink. After seeing Chris fall, he scooped her up in his arms and started skating with her. They took the bus home together and he kissed her. She says “it weakened something within me”. Leading to the next chapter in their lives. They began dating, and married on June 18, 1955. This year they celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary!

He gave his life to the Lord in Rapid City, South Dakota. After which his life was forever changed. He regularly attended church, looking spiffy in his suits, often with root beer barrels, butterscotch candies, mentos or mints found In his jacket pocket which were lovingly shared or searched for by his grandkids. He regularly served as a greeter, usher and parking attendant. He’s an adopted grandfather to many. He carried in his wallet a prayer he prayed over his wife often. He had a quiet and sweet spirit and the love of the Lord in his heart.

As with many of his generation he became a jack of all trades from shoe shinning to an operating engineer. He loved people and making them smile regardless of what occupation he held. From helping build the Minute Man Missile sites out west, or being in the rodeos in Wyoming. He worked at Cataract Foods, Niagara Falls Convention Center, was a Maintenance man, and even a mascot for Tally-Ho. He worked at the Niagara Falls Power Project where he worked on the intakes in the upper river and later building the concrete reservoir walls in the lower river. He worked for his father-in-law at Regal vending. Many people here, know him from his days in Wal-Mart’s lawn & garden center but more infamously known for his role as Santa. After retiring he volunteered at Saint Mary’s Hospital. He would dressed up as Santa bringing toys and saying prayers for the kids at Children’s Hospital.

His Santa role didn’t stop there, he would play the part for his grandkids; great-grandkids and friends at Christmas. Even at their beloved campground’s annual Christmas in July events, Santa (Larry) would arrive by helicopter with a bag of gifts for the kids and a couple elves too. One year Chris joined him and played Mrs. Claus and it was their 1st helicopter ride together. Fond memories decorating their camp holiday style, often winning the Christmas in July competition for the best decorated site.

He was a part of Mid-Town Little League for decades both working and watching several family members play, volunteer and work at the stands, in the fields, coaching and umpiring. Even while working, there were moments for family. He loved the Buffalo Bills, was an avid John Wayne fan. Collected coins and would involve the grandkids, showing them how to find special coins. He collected belt buckles, once adorning them often. He enjoyed watching wrestling and traveling to see family and friends in other states. Summers were full of seasonal camping, campfires and dancing (like many of his siblings, he loved to dance), often doing the jitterbug.

He would cry over the smallest things because the little things meant so much. He was known for his sensitive side, a trait that was loved. Despite humble beginnings Larry thrived with family around & the love of many generations. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, his very large extended family, church families, his dear friends Dave, Florence, Walt and care giver Salina (Thank you for all you’ve done). Remember this is not a goodbye, but see you later! Please join us in celebrating the life and love of this special man.

The family will be present on Thursday, September 2nd from 9 am-12 pm at the OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY (716-297-9007) where Larry’s funeral service and Life Celebration will be held at 12:00 p.m.  Prayers of committal and interment will follow in Niagara Falls Memorial Park Cemetery, Lewiston, NY.  In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the family.  Professional arrangements are under the care of the Goodlander family.  Share condolences at GOODLANDERCARES.com

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