News Summary
The Glen Rock community mourns the loss of John Leon Large, a veteran and local businessman who passed away peacefully at the age of 80. Known for his dedication to family and community, John leaves behind a legacy through his service in the U.S. Army, his entrepreneurship with Glen Rock 66, and his active involvement in local organizations such as the American Legion. Memorial services are scheduled to honor his contributions and love for the community.
Glen Rock Community Mourns Veteran and Businessman John Leon Large
The Glen Rock community is in mourning following the peaceful passing of local veteran and businessman John Leon Large at the age of 80 on June 4, 2025. Large was born on July 8, 1944, in Bristol, Tennessee, and was known for his dedication to both his family and community.
Survived by his wife, Barbara (Bortner) Large, John was a family man who also leaves behind a daughter, Michelle Marie Purdy, of Elkins, West Virginia, as well as two beloved grandchildren, Emery Ann and Lena Marie Purdy. He is also remembered by his two sisters, Norma Nunn of Turlock, California, and Estelle Hulse of Port St. Lucie, Florida. John was preceded in death by his siblings Robert Marvin Large, Deloris Walters, Dale Large, Kanie Large, and Fred Large.
Military Service and Career
John served in the U.S. Army from May 1969 to May 1971, achieving the rank of Spec 4 (Special 4th Class). He completed basic training at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, followed by advanced training at Fort Sill in Lawton, Oklahoma. During his service, John spent time in Germany with the 3rd and 76th Artillery Division, and he was deployed to Vietnam from July 1970 to May 1971, where he was stationed at Ben Het.
After returning from military service, John began his career at Black & Decker before pursuing entrepreneurship. He opened his own garage, Glen Rock 66, located at 50 Main St. in Glen Rock. Eventually, he purchased a building at 101 Manchester St., solidifying his place in the local business community.
Community Involvement
John was a long-standing member of the American Legion Post 403 in Glen Rock for over 52 years and held life memberships at VFW Post 7012 in New Freedom, Moose Chapter 3000 in Westminster, Maryland, and DAV Chapter #11 Mid Valley. His commitment to service extended beyond his military duty, as he was actively involved with the Save the Mountaguard People (STMP) organization in North Carolina.
Memorial Services
A visitation to honor John will be held at Geiple-Predicce Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc. on June 28, 2025, from 10 AM to 11 AM, followed by a memorial service. In lieu of flowers, friends and family are encouraged to make donations in John’s memory to the Lebanon VA Medical Center, Hospice Unit. Online condolences can be shared through the funeral home’s website.
Legacy
John Leon Large leaves behind a legacy of dedication to service, both in his military career and business endeavors. His contributions to Glen Rock and the lives he touched through his work and community involvement will be long remembered. The obituary was published in the York Daily Record and York Dispatch on June 16, 2025.
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Additional Resources
- Legacy.com: John Large Obituary
- Wikipedia: John Leon Large
- Legacy.com: Eric Grover Obituary
- Google Search: Eric Grover
- Tribute Archive: Jon Robert Fontane
- Google Scholar: Jon Robert Fontane
- Legacy.com: Sarah Leber Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sarah Leber
- Legacy.com: Nancy Casey Obituary
- Google News: Nancy Casey
