Ely, Lawrence O. - 1919-2011

BOYD, COFFMAN, ELY, KNAPP, MATTESON

Posted By: Polk volunteer
Date: 9/13/2024 at 13:09:43

Lawrence O. Ely, 91, died Sunday, December 4, 2011 at Scottish Rite Park. Larry was born December 13, 1919, the third of four children of John Emerson and Luella Knapp Ely. He was raised in Guthrie Center, Iowa.
Larry attended the University of Iowa, receiving four diplomas including a PHD and Medical degree. He worked at several jobs while in school paying for his education as he went. While at the University of Iowa he met his wife Dorothy in the church choir and they married on August 23, 1942. Larry served his country in World War II returning to Iowa City to finish his education and start his family.
In 1952 Larry moved with his family to Des Moines where he joined a medical practice specializing in general surgery. Over the years Larry treated many Central Iowans helping them heal and returning to a normal life.
Larry and Dorothy had five children, Patricia (Chuck) Matteson, Larry (Cheryl) Ely, Jr., Stephen (Marcia) Ely, Bennett (Leisa) Ely, and Dr. Carolyn Coffman.
One of Larry's greatest loves was singing in the church choir, which he did for over 50 years, along with singing in several community choirs. His love of music led him to become one of the co-founders of The Des Moines Metro Opera Company, which today is recognized for its outstanding commitment to young artists. Larry donated his time to Roosevelt High School as a team doctor for many sports and to the Boys State Basketball Tournament as the physician on call. Also, Larry did missionary work in Haiti.
Upon retirement Larry and Dorothy enjoyed traveling, family life and participating in many community activities.
Larry is survived by his wife Dorothy, his five children, a brother, Howard Ely (Guthrie Center, IA), a sister Norma Boyd (Lakewood, CO), eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother, Rev. Elbert Ely and a grandson, Bryant Knapp Ely.
Visitation will be held on Friday, December 9th from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at McLaren's Funeral Chapel, 19th and Ashworth Road, West Des Moines. On Saturday, December 10, an interment service will be at 10 a.m. at Resthaven Cemetery, 19th and Ashworth in West Des Moines. A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. at First Christian Church located at 25th and University in Des Moines. Lunch will immediately follow the service.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers that memorials be made to First Christian Church or the Des Moines Metro Opera.
Published in Des Moines (IA) Register; Friday, December 9, 2011, page 5B