Lawrence "Larry" William Lappin, Sr.

Larry was born on October 10, 1941, in Detroit, MI, to Thomas and Helen Lappin. He graduated from Our Lady Queen of Peace High School, then joined the U.S. Navy Reserves, and studied at the University of Detroit, and the University of Wisconsin. On February 19, 1966, he married the love of his life, Carolyn Romanowski, and celebrated 59 joyful years together.

As a top salesman for a luxury men’s clothing line, Larry enjoyed many adventures abroad. For a time, they lived in St. Louis, MO, and Madison, WI, where they raised their daughter, Ann Kimberly, and their son, Larry, Jr. They cherished their family time boating on the lakes and rivers of Wisconsin, and enjoyed countless celebrations in Michigan with extended family.

In 1980, Larry began a real estate development, for which he was awarded “Best New Community” in Middleton, Wisconsin. In 1995, Larry and his wife moved to Naples, FL, where he became a top realtor, while also enjoying golfing, boating, and volunteering at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church. He served as a Guardian ad Litem, where he advocated for underprivileged children, earning Governor Rick Scott’s recognition for nine years of service. People everywhere commented on his optimism and his “fantastic” attitude.

Larry is survived by wife Carolyn; daughter, Ann and son, Larry, Jr.(Sally); grandchildren Nolan, Lauren, Kaitlin; brother Daniel Lappin (Caress); sister-in-law, Mimi Lappin; sister-in-law, Diane Orzechowski, and his favorite furry friend, “Willow.”

He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Helen Lappin, along with his brothers, Tommy, Pat, Dick; and sister, Susie.

A 1:00pm Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 625 111th Ave N, Naples, FL 34108, followed by a 2:00pm Celebration of Life reception at Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens, 525 111th Ave N, Naples, FL 34108.