Larry A. Wood

October 17, 1940 - December 16, 2021

Larry A. Wood, age 81, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 16, 2021 surrounded by his loving family after battling Parkinson’s Disease for numerous years. He was born on October 17, 1940 to Percy and Anita (Auburn) Wood in Muskegon, MI and has remained a resident his whole life. He was a graduate of Muskegon High School class of 1958. Larry worked for a long time for Midland Grocery in the warehouse, but he retired at the age of 76 from Meijer where he worked in the meat department. On November 4, 1967 he married the love of his life, Shirley Knoll at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Muskegon. Together they cherished 54 years of marriage full of love, laughter and endless memories. In his earlier years, Larry enjoyed deer hunting and fishing with his father-in-law. He and Shirley loved making their way up to the Pere Marquette River to spend time outdoors and with family. Larry also enjoyed spending time poolside soaking up the sun and vacationing all around Michigan during the summertime. He was a man of many trades and took pride in working on his home and keeping his yard in pristine condition. Larry appreciated a homecooked meal or food in general. He was known for always being the first in line and making his way for seconds and thirds. He also always followed his dinners with a “secret” dessert, which was usually chocolate; Larry passed along this trait to a few of his grandchildren. He was a hardworking man, who enjoyed finding projects to keep him busy. Above all things, he was a family man and truly enjoyed spending time with his kids and grandchildren. He will always be remembered as a loving husband, great father, wonderful grandfather and great-grandfather; and dear friend to many. His sociable and tender-loving spirit will truly be missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Wood of Muskegon, MI; 4 children, Larry (Kristi) Wood II of Grant, MI, Kevin (Brenda) Wood of Sparta, MI, Kristina (Wayne) Clark on Muskegon, MI and Kimberly Sweet of Muskegon, MI; 6 grandchildren, Austin Sweet, Jackson Sweet, Evan Beeman, Megan (Steven) Kukulis, Larry Wood III and Rick Wood; 1 great-grandchild, Larry Wood VI; and sister, Lois (Gerald) Hilband. He is preceded in death by his parents. Arrangements entrusted to The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.