Larry White Jr.

With a life that spanned more than several decades, Larry White saw much throughout his long life. He lived through and experienced the tragedy of numerous wars, the struggles of the Great Depression, and the advancement of technology. Most important to Larry, however, was the family entrusted to his care whom he loved more than anything. Although his memory will live on in those he leaves behind, he will be dearly missed.

The year 1917 was a decade of advancement as well as struggle. While the moving assembly line increased America’s ability to produce goods, workers united to gain fair labor practices. The United States, advancing as a world power, was heavily engaged in World War I, the war meant to “end all wars.” It was during these uncertain and ever changing times when William L. White Sr. and his wife, Marie (Wilkey) of Detroit, Michigan had much to be thankful for when they celebrated the summer birth of their son, William Lawrence White Jr. on Friday, July 20, 1917.

Born and raised in Detroit, Larry grew up alongside his family during the city's boom in auto manufacturing. He enjoyed a typical childhood for the times among neighborhood friends, and shared in memorable adventures. Larry attended the local schools, and in high school played basketball until injuring his knee. Throughout this time, the world as Larry knew it changed with the effects of the Great Depression. Even so, Larry went on to graduate from high school before earning his B.S.A. after furthering his education.

Larry always had a way about him that endeared others to his side. He was outgoing and personable, and had a sense of humor that continually brought smiles to those around him. With his charming ways, Larry met a young woman while out dancing one night who captured his heart in a mighty way. He began dating June and before long they shared vows of marriage that would come to span 70 years of their lives together.

After settling into married life, Larry and June began a family of their own. In time they shared their lives and love with eight children, 20 grandchildren, and the blessing of 19 great-grandchildren, as well. Larry provided well for his family. He kept very busy, yet always had time for family. They enjoyed great times at their cottage at Belle River in Canada, and he thoroughly loved boating, swimming, and water skiing, which he often referred to as, "raking the lake".

In 1983, Larry moved his family to the community of Canton, Michigan where he went on to enjoy his retirement years. He and June also enjoyed vacationing in Sarasota, Florida in their condo, and over the years they loved the sport of snow skiing. They often traveled up north to Boyne Highlands and to Shanty Creek's Schuss Mountain in Mancelona. They took to the slopes throughout the U.S. and Canada where wonderful times were enjoyed with family and friends. In their later years, they came to enjoy parasailing.

As a native of Detroit, and with his love of basketball, the Pistons were Larry's favorite team. He also loved a good game of euchre, along with pinochle, and cribbage. His sense of humor was admired by all. He was a gifted comedian, and even came to be known as the "Bob Hope" of the family. Larry could easily light up a room, and was a friend to many. With much kindness, he enjoyed the company of others, and never had a bad word to say about anyone. In all ways, he lived life with joy, a happy heart, and was thankful for much throughout his life.

In the hearts of those who knew and loved Larry, he was a living saint who will be sorely missed and fondly remembered.

William Lawrence White, Jr. “Larry”, at the age of 95, passed away on Tuesday, November 27, 2012 peacefully at home. He was preceded in death by his son, William Lawrence White III. Larry is survived by his loving wife of 70 years, Mary “June”; his children: Robert (Pat) White, Barbara (Richard) Oury, Carolyn (Ed) Byrum, Donna Nicosia (James Mast), Kenneth White, Mary Kathleen (David) Szilagyi, Marjorie (Michael) McGuire, and Michael (Heidi) White. He was the grandfather of 20, and great-grandfather of 19.

Larry's family will receive friends at Neely-Turowski Funeral Home, 45100 Warren Road in Canton on Wednesday, November 28, 2012 from 5-9 PM and again Thursday from 2-9 PM with a Rosary service at 7:00 PM. A funeral Mass will be held at St John Neumann Church on Friday, November 30, 2012, 11:00 AM. In state beginning at 10:30 AM until the Mass begins. Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to share a favorite memory and photo of Larry and to sign his online guest book.