Larry Jones Stetler

Larry Jones Stetler passed away at the age of 79 on July 10, 2025. Larry lived a life of resilience and determination, leaving behind a legacy of which to be proud. Born in Salida, CO on November 15, 1945 while his father was in the Air Force, they moved to Michigan when Larry was a child. He was a long-time resident of Dansville, Mason, and Leslie, Michigan.

Larry graduated from Dansville High School. He served in the United States Army from 1966-1968 and received honors including a Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, and Vietnam Campaign Medal for his service. Larry had an impressive career at Motor Wheel, driving a semi-truck for Meijer Distribution, and working for MDOT. Beyond his work, he had great pride in his family.

Married on March 21, 1965, he and his wife, Phyllis, had a long marriage full of memories and adventures like boating, traveling to New Mexico, Colorado, and Georgia, and taking an island cruise. In 1967, they welcomed their son Brian Larry Stetler, born in Mason, Michigan, who was his pride and joy. Brian and his wife Tasha gave him one of his most prized titles, papa to his grandchildren, Victoria (Stetler) Veda, and Branden Stetler (and wife, Alexa Stetler). He was extra proud of his two great-grandchildren, Adalin and James Simmons, and was excited to welcome another great-grandson this summer.

He had many friends with whom he loved staying in touch, including many meaningful friends who became like family in the last seven years at Heritage Village of Holt. A lover of animals, Larry had many dogs and a few horses throughout his life.

Larry was a good man. He was kind to all and cared deeply for those around him. He would always make time to hear a story and ask questions to keep you talking. Larry believed in taking pride in his work, in every sense. From his meticulous mechanical care standards to his focus on safety and work ethic, he always made sure he left things better than he found them. He worked hard and overcame many challenges in his life. He leaves behind him a lifetime of perseverance and strength, inspiring everyone he met.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur and Mamie Stetler, his brother, Keith Stetler, his wife, and his wife Phyllis (Johnson) Stetler.

A celebration of life will be held at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home in Mason, on July 18, 2025 from 1:00 pm until 4:00. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ingham County Animal Shelter in Larry’s honor. The family has asked for perennial plants instead of cut flowers to establish memorial gardens in Larry’s honor.