Larry was born in Washington, DC and moved to New York City to attend New York University (NYU) and graduated with a degree in Journalism. Prior to attending NYU he attended Stevens Institute of Technology where he majored in Physics. While living in New York and working as a editor and computer programmer at the American Institute of Aerodynamics and Astrodynamics he met his future wife at an after-work party. Larry and Ellie were married in NYC on May 19, 1984 and after moving to Silver Spring, Maryland, had three children; Daniel Adam Covey, David Aaron Covey, and Deborah Allyn Covey.
Larry had an eclectic taste in music from country to reggae, to rock of the 70’s, 80’s, and 90’s. He was an avid reader of non-fiction (science, history, biography) and science fiction. For Daniel’s first birthday he received a Lionel model train set; that started Larry’s life-long love of all things trains. He was a member of the Pioneer Valley Model Railroad Club for which he hosted meetings and welcomed busloads of fellow modelers to see his elaborate (1500 sq. feet) layouts including scenes from city, country, small towns, and even the Moon.
Larry had been interested in science and space exploration from an early age. He read science and science fiction from the time he first learned to read. Astronomy and science became a life-long interest. Although he was never published, he wrote short stories based on science. Given his appreciation of science and his disdain for formal events (i.e. funerals),when Larry passed away we had a difficult time deciding how to proceed. Larry has always had disdain for structured events such as weddings and funerals. Based on previous discussions with Larry, the children and I decided that Larry would choose to be cremated. One of the children came upon the Celestis website and knowing that Larry always dreamed of being an astronaut or what as a child he referred to, a space cowboy, we decided that a Celestis launching would be a good way to memorialize who Larry was.
Larry was truly my soul mate and I will love and miss him till the end of my days. His three adult children were devastated by his loss and the guidance, humor, and unique vision of the world are missed daily. He is missed by his two sisters, as well as his sister- and brother-in-law, nieces, nephews, and other relatives. His friends miss him including people from college, old and new neighbors, members of his train club, and fellow gin rummy players. Everyone misses his annual Christmas letters that were filled with humor about himself, the family, and the state of the world.
All of our lives were changed when Larry passed away on November 1, 2019; our world and that of friends and family have lost a source of love, humor, and friendship. I dedicate this launch to Larry, my husband, lover, and friend.
