Lawrence (Larry) Booker, age 72, formerly of Manchester, passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 18, 2024 in Imatra, Finland following a brief illness. He was in the class of 1970 from Manchester Central High School and graduated from Motlow State Community College in 1972 with an Associate’s degree in Computer Science. He completed his studies at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro earning a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. He had a lengthy career at International Paper where he progressed from an Accounting Manager’s position to Director of Finance over the European market and South Africa. He was very well traveled and well read. He also resided in several Countries including Belgium, France, Switzerland and Finland. He worked for several years in Russia while residing in Finland. Upon retiring from IP he started his own consulting business entitled, ‘Booker Consulting’.  He continued to run his own business for the remainder of his life. Larry will be remembered mostly for his unique personality and sense of humor. He possessed a very strong work ethic but also believed in embracing life to the fullest in every sense of the word. He had his feet firmly on the ground but also possessed qualities of a free spirit. If you ever encountered his presence you soon found he was truly unforgettable. He is survived by his wife, Katerina, step-son Ville (Irina) Hassinen of Tampere, Finland; mother Thelma Howell of Manchester; brother Joel (Janet) Booker of Newport, NC; sister Rose Ann Howell of Manchester, and also many friends who miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Phonsie H. Howell of Manchester. A memorial gathering took place at Larry’s favorite Spanish restaurant, La Sal, in Imatra, Finland on Jan. 28, 2025. Among those present were members of his family and closest friends. A private funeral will be held in Finland at a later date.

Private Obituary