Larry David Patrick's Obituary
Larry David Patrick, 92, of Big Rapids, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 2, 2025. He was born on September 11, 1933, in Mancelona, MI, the son of John and Myrtle (Taylor) Patrick.
Larry proudly served in the United States Navy from 1952 to 1960. A dedicated community member, he was involved with the Pineview School Board and the American Legion, served on the Board of Review for Norwich Township, and was a board member of the Newaygo County Society of History and Genealogy.
On August 30, 1957, Larry married the love of his life, Joyce Wells. Together, they built a life centered on family, farming, hard work, and faith.
Larry was a dairy farmer for 50 years, a calling that suited his strong work ethic and love of the outdoors. He enjoyed riding his tractor, hauling hay, milking cows with family by his side, and spending countless hours on the land he cared for. In his younger years, Larry played softball and basketball, and throughout his life he enjoyed all sports—especially cheering on Big Rapids teams.
A devoted outdoorsman, he loved deer hunting, even if he was well-known for dozing off in the blind. His grandchildren fondly remember waking him up by honking the horn, a memory that still brings smiles. When time allowed, Larry also owned and operated J&J pool company, putting a lot of the pools in the Canadian Lakes area. He was one to be counted on for lending a hand wherever he was needed.
Larry will be remembered for his steady presence, generous spirit, and unwavering devotion to family and community. His legacy of love and hard work will live on in all who knew him.
Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce; their children, David (Suzanne) Patrick, Marilou (David) Clary, and Lynda (David) Thorp; daughter-in-law Diane Patrick; and his brother, John (Jeanne) Patrick. He also leaves behind many cherished grandchildren: Alan (Jenn) Patrick, Dawn Patrick, Chad Patrick, Kristi (Quentin) King, Eric (Michelle) Patrick, Heather Prestly (Brian), and Alivia Thorp; as well as great-grandchildren Shyann, Kayden, Erica, Aidyn, Kiera, Charlie, Oliver, and Kamdyn.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Dale, and his sisters, Joy Bishop and Barbara Patrick.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 5th at 11 a.m. at the Fellowship Christian Reformed Church in Big Rapids. Larry’s family will greet friends from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, December 4th at the Mohnke Janowicz Funeral Home in Big Rapids, and on Friday beginning at 10 a.m. at the church. He will be laid to rest in Hungerford Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion in Big Rapids.
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