Traverse City Record-Eagle

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June 26, 2012

Lawrence R. 'Larry' Smith Jr.

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TRAVERSE CITY — Lawrence R. "Larry" Smith Jr., 65, of Traverse City, left this earth to be with his Savior on Saturday, June 23, 2012.

Larry was born on July 24, 1946, in Owosso, to the late Lawrence R. Smith Sr. and Anne (Gould) Smith. Larry earned his bachelor's degree in Economics from Hillsdale College in 1969, where he was a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. After college, Larry served our country honorably as a member of the United States Army. On April 9, 1999, Larry married Linda Grassa, of Traverse City.

A natural athlete, Larry enjoyed skiing, biking and sailing, as well as photography and reading. Always considerate, caring, and curious about others, Larry's life exemplified love for his fellow man, endearing him to everyone he met.

Larry's life took a distinct turn when, in 2008, after 10 years, cancer returned to his lungs. For the last four years faith in Christ became the source of Larry's indomitable strength and positive spirit, and he took comfort in knowing that when his suffering was over, he'd be going home to be with his Lord.

Larry is survived by his wife, Linda; step-daughter, Nicole Domine; step-son, Eric (Kristin) Grassa; sister, Lauri, and brother-in-law, George Varga; grandchildren, Karly, Carson, Jacob and Alex; and nieces, Anja Marie Gierlach and Lisa Wentland; and family.

A memorial service celebrating Larry's life will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, June 28, at Bay Pointe Community Church, 6880 Secor Rd., Traverse City. Interment will take place at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 30, at Oak Hill Cemetery in Owosso.

Memorial contributions in memory of Larry may be directed to Bay Pointe Community Church.

Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your thoughts and memories with the family.

The family is being served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

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