Lawrence Leroy "Larry" Gutman

Lawrence Leroy Gutman, affectionately known as Larry, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2024, in Beavercreek, Ohio, at the age of 86. Born on December 13, 1938, in Dayton, Ohio, Larry left a profound impact on all who knew him. His life was a remarkable journey marked by brilliance, faith, and an unwavering dedication to family and friends.

 Education was a cornerstone of Larry's life. He graduated in 1957 from Patterson Co-Op. He graduated with his Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Dayton in 1961, followed by a Master’s Degree from New York University in 1963. Larry continued to nurture his love for learning during the 1970s as he pursued a Ph.D. at his beloved Ohio State University.

 Larry's career showcased his exceptional talents and deep commitment to his work. In 1962, he began his career with New Jersey Bell Telephone Laboratory. From 1967 to 1997, he made significant contributions at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, where he was recognized as an integral part of the Electrical engineering program, culminating in his induction into the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Engineering Hall of Fame. His final years of work were spent at General Dynamics from 2000 to 2005. During his career he focused on cutting-edge projects such as communications, antenna and satellite system, including Air Force One. He was also involved in the early stages of development for GPS, which is used in daily life as we know it. Larry’s early aptitude for electronics blossomed as he immersed himself in schematics, working on televisions and radios during his childhood in his parents' basement.

 Not only was Larry a gifted engineer, but he was also a man of profound faith, balanced with a bright, cheerful personality. He was hardworking, always willing to lend a hand, and devoted to his family. His legacy is further enriched by his passionate interests, including being a dedicated band parent for the Carroll High School Carolleers, where he helped design floats and volunteered with competitions across the United States. Larry also enjoyed playing bridge with the St. Luke Bridge Club and mentored the Chess Club at St. Luke School. He passed his love of chess down to his grandson, which created many cherished memories for them both. Another favorite pastime of Larry’s was fishing at his parents’ cabin at Norris Lake. 

 He leaves behind a loving family, including his sons and daughter-in-law, Michael “Mike” and Melinda Gutman of Englewood, Florida, and Thomas "Tom" Gutman of Pompano Beach, Florida; daughters and sons-in-law, Dr. Kathleen "Kathy" Gutman and Mark Robbins of Beavercreek, Ohio, and Lynne and James Mowery of Dayton, Ohio. Larry's family continued with five grandchildren: Erick Gutman, Megan (Victor) Zeng, Benjamin "Ben" Leithold, D.D.S., Kayla (Zachary Carnevale) Mowery, and James Isaac "Zack" Mowery, as well as two great-grandchildren, Rye and Max Zeng. He is also survived by many other loving relatives and friends who will carry forward the lessons of kindness, perseverance, and love that he imparted to them.

 Larry was preceded in death by his beloved wife of nearly 52 years, Carol Ann Frazier Gutman, whose memory he cherished deeply. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Mary Alice Gutman; his sister, Carolyn Leis; and brothers, John Gutman and Ralph Michael "Mike" Gutman.

 Visitation will be held from 5:00pm-8:00pm, on Thursday, December 26, 2024, at Newcomer Funeral Home, 3380 Dayton-Xenia Rd., Beavercreek. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 27, 2024, at 11:00am, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 2300 S. Smithville Rd., Dayton, with Fr. Satish Joseph officiating. Following services, he will be laid to rest with his beloved wife at Calvary Cemetery, Dayton.

 Donations may be made in his memory to Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley, 922 W. Riverview Ave., Dayton, Ohio 45402.

 As we remember Larry, we celebrate a brilliant mind, a kind heart, and a life devoted to service and family. Though he has departed from this world, his spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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