Lawrence William Van De Velde

This funeral for Larry will be Utterly Fantastic. Larry, age 70, passed away Friday, February, 10, 2017. The son of Peter and Marion (Gouin), he was born September 18, 1946 in Detroit, MI. As one of the founding partners of Sunrise Windows, Larrys legacy will be one of leadership, hard work and positive attitude. Larry was an extremely hard worker. After graduating from De La Salle High School he attended Wayne State University where he met his future wife, Laura Liss. Working fulltime, Larry earned his bachelor degree at night from Lawrence Tech, preparing himself for success. He also joined the National Guard for six years. He was then honorably discharged reinforcing his belief in structure and commitment. As a hobby, Larry was in a few bowling leagues, winning tournaments and the heart of Laura along the way. He married Laura on February18, 1966. Larry then began his career in Plant Manufacturing Management, where he established himself as a leader and mentor to many of his co-workers. He would offer advice when asked in the work place, both professional and for personal growth. He climbed the ranks from Therma Tru to Great Lakes Windows and finally his pride and joy becoming a founding partner of Sunrise Windows. Larry was respected by all the men and women he worked with. Larry was always positive and upbeat, practicing what he preached as president of the Athletic Booster Clubs of both Southview HS and Ohio Northern University. He inspired other parents to get involved and contribute to making memories with their children. He would say these days go by quickly, make them count. As we came to realize, they sure did. He loved to give back to the community serving as the voice of the Cougars, announcing football and basketball games. Upon retiring from Sunrise Windows, he moved into the small community of Onsted, MI which embraced him as one of their own. He continued his announcing career for the Onsted Wildcats. Larry got to enjoy his retirement in the beautiful lake community of Onsted, where he was an avid angler and not too shabby of a golfer sinking two documented hole in ones. Later in life he took the simple pleasure of feeding the deer in the back yard and connecting with nature. Larry has always been a big supporter of all things Detroit, especially the sports. He loved taking his son to Tiger games, yelling at Cecil, cheering on the Bad Boys, Red Wings and his lovable losers, the Lions. But his biggest passion for sports was the University of Michigan. He loved the Maize and Blue and the electric atmosphere of the Big House. Cmon Harbaugh, beat the suckeyes for Big Lar this year. GO Blue! He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Laura; son, Len; granddaughter, Alexis Van De Velde; brothers, Ron (Laura) and Bob (Darlene) Van De Velde; a host of nieces nephews; and the kitty, Leo. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister-in-law, Rita. Friends may visit the family on Tuesday February 14, 2017 from 2-4:00 PM at Walker Funeral Home 5155 Sylvania Ave (west of Corey Rd) where a celebration of life will be held at 4:00 PM . Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider The American Cancer Society. Condolences may be shared with the family at walkerfuneralhomes.com. The family would like to thank Dr. Tim Kasunic MD and his staff at the Toledo Clinic Cancer Center and the staff at Promedica Hospice.