Larry Chester Book
February 18, 1940 — September 18, 2024
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Service Details
Larry Chester Book, age 84, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at Cedar Ridge Village in West Des Moines, Iowa. Larry was born on February 18, 1940 to Chester Leroy and Anna May (Gittins) Book in Des Moines, Iowa.
Larry graduated from Roosevelt High School in Des Moines and earned his degree from the University of Iowa Dental School in 1965. Following graduation, he served as a Captain in the United States Air Force in Minot, North Dakota from 1965 to 1967. After his military service, Larry became a beloved dentist in West Des Moines where he practiced for 43 years. An avid tennis player, he enjoyed countless games with friends at the Des Moines Golf and Country Club. He was also an active and dedicated member of the West Des Moines Kiwanis Club, serving as President for several years.
In retirement, Larry found fulfillment mentoring dental students at Broadlawns Medical Center and treasured spending time with his family, especially at their cherished retreat, Lake Okoboji. Larry’s warmth, kindness, and dedication will be deeply missed by his family, many friends, and former patients.
He is survived by his loving wife, Alice Book; his children, Julie Ellen Cahill and Anne Marie (David) Fussichen; his grandsons, Brendan James Cahill, John Kenneth Fussichen, and Joseph Lorenzo Fussichen; his sisters, Susan (Fred) Rossiter, Janet (Jim) Clark, Cindie (Richard) Book, Deanna (Book) Boesen; and his brother, Steven Book.
Larry was preceded in death by his daughter, Theresa Susan Book; and his brothers, Glenn (Marilyn) Book, Robert (Glo) Book, and Richard (Karen) Book.
Larry’s family invites friends and loved ones to a visitation on Wednesday, September 25, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, Iowa with a memorial service at 12:00 p.m. Private burial will follow.
The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Cedar Ridge Village for the compassionate care Larry received.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to NAMI Iowa and the Alzheimer’s Association.
Jon McAvoy
09/25/2024
I am so sorry to hear about Larry's passing. I first met him when I was working at Bankers Life and he was the "company dentist". He worked 1/2 days there and employees got a free teeth cleaning in the office set up there. I worked with dental claims and when we would have any questions about the treatment being rendered to our insureds I could consult with him about any situation. I remember we went to the Bankers LIfe Christmas parties and showed off our dancing skills, such as they were. I engaged Larry as my personal dentist as I was new to Des Moines and continued with him until he retired. What a great guy! RIP, Larry.
Gina Drilling Wagner
09/23/2024
Janet, I was sorry to read of your brother's death. It brought back memories of our time in Winterset. As I recall, your family had a bookstore in downtown Des Moines. A little trip down memory land for me.