Obituary

Larry “Bull” Croston, 77, of Beaver Falls, passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at Heritage Valley Beaver.

Born in Beaver Falls on October 1, 1948, he was the son of the late Troy and Norine (Dalton) Croston. In addition to his parents, Bull was preceded in death by his in-laws, Stanley “Stas” and Suzie Lapinski.

Bull 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.

Bull 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 5^th Avenue Boys. Bull 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, Bull played Santa for children’s events. He coached both of his daughter’s and son’s rec ball teams. Bull’s 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. Pregame he would sing along 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.

Bull 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. Bull carried a pocket bible everywhere he went. His final act of kindness was being a skin graft donor.

Per his 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 Bull and his family during this most difficult time.