Class of 1968 | Greenfield High School
Larry Breese has established a legacy in his community and most importantly in the lives of his children. “Our dad has been a role model not only to us, but to many of our friends. He has passed on his love of public service and his work ethic. Our dad has set an example for us on how to live our lives to the fullest,” said Corey Breese and Emily Ewing. Larry, in turn, attributes his work ethic and common sense to his parents, coaches, and Greenfield High School Band Director George N. Huntworth – who he terms “his most influential teacher.”
A 1968 graduate of Greenfield High School, Larry was a member of many clubs, played in the band, was Drum Major, and lettered in track and cross country which earned him a position in the 10:30 Club. Larry then attended Indiana State University.
Upon leaving Indiana State, Larry began a long-term career with Indianapolis Office Supply Company where he was a business manager and salesman. During his time at IOS, he became one of the leading salesmen, winning many trips to Europe as a reward for his productive efforts, and earning Salesman of the Year three times.
Serving others took several forms in Larry’s life. He coached basketball when his son was small, impacting and influencing young men’s lives. He began his service to the city of Greenfield as a volunteer fireman for 12 years. He was then elected to the Greenfield City Council, where he served a 4-year term. With the encouragement of Pat Elmore, Larry ran for Clerk-Treasurer and was elected to his first term. He went on to serve the citizens of Greenfield with experience, knowledge and wisdom for 20 years (1996-2016) as their elected Clerk-Treasurer until retirement.
During his second career as Clerk-Treasurer, Larry continued furthering his education and received his IMC (Indiana Municipal Clerk), CMC (Certified Municipal Clerk), IAMC (Indiana Association of Municipal Clerks) and the prestigious MMC (Master Municipal Clerk) in 2006.
Larry served on the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns (IACT) Board of Directors, Legislative Committee as well as several others during his time in office. Larry served the Indiana League of Municipal Clerk-Treasurers (LMCT) as Secretary in 2006-07, Vice President in 2007-08, and was elected by his peers to serve as President of ILMCT in 2008-09. He began serving as a Trustee for the IACT Medical Trust in 2012.
Larry’s dedication, skill and proficiency were noticed and honored. In 2010, Larry received the Financial Excellence Award from IACT for his outstanding contribution and expertise in financial management. Before his retirement, Larry received the distinguished Sagamore of the Wabash award from Governor Pence.
Larry’s colleagues have said, “Larry Breese has served the citizens of Greenfield as well as those throughout the state of Indiana with integrity, dedication, loyalty, wisdom, and a vast amount of experience and knowledge gained through a lifetime of public service. He has been an outstanding example of how elected officials should approach their responsibilities.”
Larry continues to serve the citizens of Greenfield as a member of the Greenfield Board of Public Works and Safety, the Riley Old Home Society, and is on the Hancock County Election Board. A lifelong member of Kiwanis, Larry has also served as its President and was honored as a Kiwanian of the Year.
Larry married Roberta Hobbs Breese on August 12, 1972. They are the proud parents of the late Jon Christian Breese, Corey (Grace) Breese, and Emily (Terry) Ewing. Larry and Roberta have three granddaughters: Phoenix, Reagan, and Baylie. Larry’s family is very proud of all the work he has done and is still doing for our community. His dedication to the city of Greenfield has been inspiring.