Larry F Staffen's Obituary
In Loving Memory - Larry F Staffen - Big Rapids
Larry F. Staffen, 85, of Stanwood, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 22, 2024, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City.
He was born July 28, 1939, in Lakeview, Michigan, the son of Clare and Florence (Bush) Staffen, and graduated from Morley High School in 1957.
On January 31, 1959, Larry married the love of his life, Joyce Young, and together they embarked on a beautiful journey. In 1962, they moved to Big Rapids, where Larry pursued his education at Ferris Institute (Ferris State University). He earned an Associate's Degree in Surveying and Topographical Drafting, followed by a Bachelor's in Construction Management. Serving for 35 years in the City of Big Rapids Engineering Department, Larry was respected for his expertise and work ethic. Following his retirement, Larry taught classes at Ferris State for the training of testing road-building materials.
Dancing was a golden thread woven throughout Larry and Joyce’s relationship, starting from their first date and continuing for decades with square and country dancing. Larry also embraced a variety of hobbies, including traveling, camping, snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, woodworking/carving, lapidary, golfing, and pickleball. A man of profound faith, Larry served as a devoted elder and usher at St. Peter's Lutheran Church. He will be remembered for his patience, exceptional memory, and open-mindedness in trying new things (with the exception of okra, as Joyce fondly recalls). Above all, Larry cherished time spent with family and friends, creating memories that will endure for a lifetime.
Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Joyce; his children Mick (Marianne) of Howard City, Tim (Carla) of Big Rapids, and Carri (Jerry) Aldrich of Big Rapids; his grandchildren Amber, Andrea, Charlie, Emily (Gage), Sara (Nate), and Nick; and his nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Nyle Staffen of Sparta; his sister, Linda Huson of Lansing; his brother-in-law, Bill Lucas of Cadillac; his sister-in-law, Patricia (Rodney) Boker of Howard City; and many nieces and nephews. Larry was preceded in death by his son Gerald Clare Staffen in 1981, his sister Janice Lucas, his sister-in-law Jean Staffen, and his brother and sister-in-law Chuck and Barb Lawrence.
Funeral services will be at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Big Rapids, with Pastor Tyson Bentz officiating. Larry’s family will greet friends from 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 28, at the Mohnke Janowicz Funeral Home in Big Rapids, and one hour prior to services on Thursday at the church. Memorial contributions in his name may be made to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church or a charity of choice in lieu of flowers. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.
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