Jerry Marvin Larson

Jerry Marvin Larson hung up his catcher’s mitt, cleats and coaching hat for the final time on December 18, 2016. Jerry was born in Detroit Michigan on July 15, 1929. He graduated from Western High School lettering in baseball and cross country. Jerry had a love of baseball, playing hardball, softball, umpiring, coaching, and even coaching/playing in a senior league in Florida until he was 80 years old. That year his team won the local seniors’ championship and Jerry decided to go out on top.

Jerry served in the Korean War, surviving difficult times on the battlefield. Beside the tragedy of war, Jerry liked to tell the story of learning to downhill ski as part of military training. He would say, “That was the only time I saw soldiers excited about training.”

Returning to the states after the war, Jerry worked for Ford Motor Company, eventually going into the skilled trades. He retired from the Woodhaven Stamping plant as a tool and die maker.

He loved to travel, saying that he had set foot in all 50 states. Jerry’s interest in airplanes led to his training and receiving his private pilot license. This allowed him the freedom of flying cross country and out of the country; at one time owning his own Moony airplane.

Jerry lived the last 30 years in Spring Hill Florida, ‘paradise’. He never met a stranger, and always had a plan, or an idea. He served in the Grace Presbyterian Chancel Choir for many years in the baritone section, and as a frequent soloist.

Jerry is survived by his daughter, Paula (Tom) Jackson; sons, Richard Larson, Mark (Sophie) Larson; four grandchildren, Bill (Chrissie) Humphrey, Lisa Humphrey, Seth Jackson and Fawn Larson. Papa Lars leaves behind his great granddaughter Avarielle Rose Humphrey; siblings Beverly (Joe) Gugleotti, John Larson, Sharon Fleener, Charles (Joyce) Larson; numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Patricia; sister Nancy Larson and brother-in-law John Fleener.

Interment will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI.

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to Sparrow Home Hospice in thanks for the loving service they provided to our family during Jerrys’ journey.

Their address is: Sparrow Home Hospice 1210 W. Saginaw, Lansing, MI 48915.

The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Chapel. On line condolences may be made at

www.greastlansing.com