John Lawrence Larson

John Lawrence Larson, 74, of Stevensville, passed away, Thursday, August 07, 2014 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:30 A.M. Tuesday, August 12, 2014 at Saron Lutheran Church, 510 Main St., St. Joseph, with Rev. Joan Oleson officiating.  Military Rites will follow, at the church, conducted by the North Berrien Military Rites Team.  Friends may visit with the family from 5:00 until 8:00 P.M. Monday at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph.  Friends are encouraged to drive their classic cars to the visitation & service in John’s honor.  Memorial donations may be made in John’s name to Saron Lutheran Church or the American Heart Association.  Those wishing to sign John’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. John was born June 3, 1940 in Benton Harbor to John A. & Mary E. (Dahlstrom) Larson.  He graduated from Benton Harbor High School, Class of 1958.  He served his country in the United States Marine Corp from January 1961 until March 1963. On August 6, 1964 he married the former Janet Schaub in Benton Harbor.  John was employed at Whirlpool Corp beginning in 1964 and retiring in 2000 as a facility engineer.  He was employed for several years in between at All-Phase Electric.  John was a member of Saron Lutheran Church, American Legion Post #353 in Eau Claire, Southwest Michigan Car Collectors, Rod Knockers Car Club, Corvette Coventry, and a former member of the IBEW.  John enjoyed camping, winters in Lady Lake, Florida, and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. John is survived by his wife Janet; his children-Michelle (Steve) Hadaway of Lake Zurich, IL, Sean (Sarah) Larson of Alto, MI, Kevin (Kelly) Larson of Georgetown, CO; five grandchildren-Connor, Cai & Michaela Hadaway, Joshua & Grace Larson; his canine companion Lady; three sisters-Karen Reeves of Freemont, MI, Beverly (Bill) Harmon of Benton Harbor, Marybeth (Brian) Culverhouse of Benton Harbor; and several nieces & nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents.