Larry James Enders

Larry J. Enders, 69, of Elk Rapids passed away July 3, 2011 after a three-month battle with cancer. He was born in East Tawas, Michigan to Nic and Angela (Mielock) Enders on June 30, 1942. Larry enjoyed his childhood years in Gaylord where he was a 1959 St. Mary High School graduate. After completing his education at Aquinas College in 1963, he returned to Gaylord where he began his lifelong career with Standard Products (Cooper Tire). In addition to Michigan, his career took him to Ohio, Georgia, California and South Carolina. He was consistently involved in the leadership of service organizations such as United Way, Chamber of Commerce, Knights of Columbus, Scouting and others. In the mid 1980 he managed the Gaylord plant and was active in community affairs, serving on the local Fifth Third Bank board of directors. Upon his retirement as President of Cooper Tire (Commercial Division) in 2003, he returned to live in northern Michigan. Larry is a devoted son, brother, husband, father and grandfather; putting other people and their needs ahead of his own.

He is survived by his wife Barbara, son Matthew (Amanda), stepsons Boyd Eager, and Brad (Julie) Eager, granddaughters Ashley and Abbie Eager, brothers Mic (Mary), Tom (Marilyn) and Bob (Sandy) as well as many nephews, nieces and cousins.

Visitation will be from 5-7pm Thursday, July 7, 2011 at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church, 143 Charles St., Elk Rapids, where a Vigil for the Deceased will be held at 7pm. additional visitation will be held on Friday July 8, 2011 beginning at 10am. A Mass from the Order of Christian Funerals will be celebrated on Friday, July 8, 2011 at 11am at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church, with the Rev. Robert J. Zuchowski presiding.

Memorial contributions may be made to Food for the Poor, Trinity Missions, Catholic Charities USA or the charity of your choice.