Obituary of Larry Gene Lighty

Larry Gene Lighty 1937-2021 LAST FLIGHT Larry filed his last flight plan for August 8, 2021 ETA 11:15 a.m. He arrived on time – Mission Accomplished “So here’s a nickel on the grass to you, my friend, and your spirit, enthusiasm, sacrifice and courage – but most of all, to your friendship. Yours is a dying breed and when you are gone, the world will be a lesser place.” Larry loved his Air Force flying days; T-37, T-38, F-4, F-105, F-15, the Top Gun training at Nellis AFB, his flying buddies and friends, the completion in the air and at the bar. He served three tours in Viet Nam and was awarded numerous metals. He wasn’t much for sitting around doing nothing so, after retiring as Lt Col in 1976, he enrolled at the California State University Sacramento, where he graduated with honors in Computer Science. He started his second career at the UC Davis Medical Center and eventually moved to VSP as a computer engineer. He retired from VSP and moved to Placerville, California. His retirement years were filled with hiking, biking, skiing, kayaking, camping, golfing, racquet ball, traveling and volunteering. He built his own Kayak of which he was very proud. He was an avid reader until Parkinson’s took that pleasure away from him. Larry was married to Bonnie Berry for 27 years. They remained close friends to the end. In 1993, Larry married Misty diVittorio. Misty describes Larry as “curious”. He enjoyed learning and liked adventure. For over 20 years they enjoyed hiking, especially at Drakesbad, skiing, especially in Utah, and traveling together to Air Force reunions and to far away places like Russia, Peru and many others. Larry loved life and lived it to its fullest. He was known for his quick smile and great sense of humor. When saying “good to see you, Larry!”, his consistent response was “Good to be seen!” He was never without friends who he enjoyed cooking for and entertaining. Larry grew up with his brothers, Brad and Stan, in Portland, OR. He is survived by his niece, Carrie Laughlin, and four nephews, Rick Scott Lighty, Stanley Mark Lighty, Gene Brian Lighty and Brent Lighty. A celebration of Larry’s life is being planned by his dear friends, to be held at a later date.