Larry “Bull” Croston, 77, of Beaver Falls, passed away on November 20th, 2025 at Heritage Valley Beaver. He was born in Beaver Falls on October 1st, 1948, a son of the late Troy and Norine (Dalton) Croston. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his in-laws, Stanley “Stas” and Suzie Lapinski. He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Patricia “Patti” (Lapinski) Croston (married at Holy Trinity Church), his son, Neal (Danielle) Croston, his daughter, Lesley Croston, his grandchildren, Ryan, Sean and Adam Croston, his brothers, Gary (Sharon) Croston and Tim (Kris) Croston, a brother-in-law, Bob Lapinski, his best friend/best man, Bob (Cathie) Wagoner, along with numerous cousins, nieces & nephews.
Larry was known as a sports enthusiast and for over 50 years, he was a Beaver Valley referee/umpire for football, basketball and softball. He didn’t travel anywhere in Beaver County without knowing someone. He worked at B&W Steel Mill, but when the mills shut down, he became a maintenance mechanic at VEKA until retirement. He played football, baseball, and basketball at Beaver Falls. His lifelong childhood friends were known as the 5th Avenue Boys. He was a member of the West Mayfield VFW and the New Brighton Eagles Club. He played on numerous softball adult rec teams and as a pitcher had an arc that touched the sky. During the holidays, he played Santa for children’s events. He coached both of his daughter’s and son’s rec ball teams. His biggest love was watching Pymatuning Valley sports for his son’s coaching and his grandson’s football, baseball, and basketball games. His chair was always on the sideline watching win or lose. He would sing along pregame to the national anthem with his booming bass voice. He enjoyed golfing and bowling leagues and was an avid fan of the Steelers and Pirates. He loved traveling with his wife, Patti, on various beach trips & cruises with friends and family, sending postcards of their travels. He loved genealogy and was very proud of his family’s Appalachian roots and tracing family back to the Revolutionary War. He visited many historic sites and loved to learn and share stories. He never left a historical marker unread. He respected his ancestors by cleaning and maintaining their graves. He carried a pocket bible everywhere he went. His final act of kindness was being a skin graft donor.
In accordance with Larry’s wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service. The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, was honored to care for Larry and his family during this most difficult time and was the funeral home that was in charge of his arrangements.