Larry E. Griffen

Larry Ellsworth Griffen, 71, of Black Lick, PA passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, October 30, 2016.

The son of Herbert Ellsworth Griffen and Hazel May (Schaeffer) Griffen, he was born August 22, 1945 in Franklin, PA.

Larry formerly worked for Dietrich Industries and he served two years in the United States Army.

He was an active member of the United Steel Workers of America where he served as a Union Steward.

Larry’s pride and joy were his grandchildren. He loved his pets, Tabby, Beezer and Dude and his “Bucs” and Steelers. His interests were hunting, fishing and cooking.

Surviving are his sons, William Ellsworth Griffen (Misty) of Black Lick and Brian Anthony Griffen (Karen) of Powhatan, VA; four grandchildren, Hannah and Jossalyn of Black Lick and Claire and Benjamin of Powhatan, VA; three sisters, Rebecca Winters of Franklin; Margaret Kohoutek (Donald) of Loganville, GA and Judy Whitaker (Daniel) of Franklin; brother, Gerald Griffen (Connie) of Homer City; longtime companion, Sally Hill of Coral, and their granddaughter, Kylee “Scoots” and his many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Thomas Winters, Sr.; two nephews, Timothy and Jody Winters and a niece, Melinda Griffen.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 P.M. Wednesday at the Shoemaker Funeral Home, Inc., 49 N. Walnut St. Blairsville, PA. A memorial service will be held at 8:00 P.M. Wednesday at the funeral home with Chaplain Brian A. Griffen officiating.

A private graveside service and interment will be in Franklin Cemetery, Franklin, at a later date.

Family and friends are encouraged to wear Steelers jerseys or black and gold to the visitation and memorial service.