Janice L. Larabee's Obituary
Janice L. Larabee, age 80, met her loving Lord and Saviour on Sunday, December 26, 2021. Born March 2, 1941, to John and Twyla (Silvis) Cassady, Jan was a life-long resident of Muskegon, Michigan, and a graduate from Muskegon Heights High School; Class of ‘59, a leader on the Women’s Basketball Team. GO TIGERS!! Jan was also a successful business secretary, which included work at organizations like Muskegon’s Sealed Power and California’s Presidio of Monterey. On June 30, 1961, Janice married the love of her life, Donald Larabee, also from Muskegon. They met at the tender ages of 10 and 12, respectively, and their adult love story sailed forward on the dance floor of the SS Milwaukee Clipper. She and Don had a passion for dancing; whether tapping, waltzing, or just making up their own dance steps. They were an inseparable team, enjoying each moment doing the things they loved. Together they cherished 60 full years of love, laughter, and endless memories; ever sustained by God’s amazing grace through unbearable tragedy. Janice found hours of solace as a gifted Crocheter. Her unique craft gave comfort to so many. She especially enjoyed giving her signature and artfully intricate array of colorful baby blankets to newborns and for baptisms; whether to family, friends, her church fellowship or to other community members. Above all, Janice Larabee will be known as a loyal wife, loving mother, doting grandma, and great-grandma! The grandkids affectionately called her Silver-Fox, who stole their hearts. We also remember her collection of clowns. The display cabinet is full of whimsical joy. This hobby expressed her desire to help people laugh. Her bubbly sanguine personality will truly be missed. She was a people person, ever willing and able to make a new friend. No one felt like a stranger or ignored in her presence. She is lovingly survived by (in her words) “The Sweetest Husband” Donald Larabee, her one and only; with her 3 “Beautiful” children, Jeff (Theresa) Larabee, Kathy (Dave) Thwaites, and Jennifer Larabee; 9 “Most Precious” grandsons, Luke Larabee, Seth Larabee, Noah Larabee, Stephen (Jennifer) Thwaites, Eric (Jen Rotach) Thwaites, Tyler (Sophia Carmen) Purcell; Jonathan Purcell, Connor (Hayle) Purcell, and Jaxon Cullom; plus 2 “Adorable” great-granddaughters, Madison and Isla Thwaites; and “Amazing” brother Michael (Ann) Cassady. Janice is preceded in death by her “Beloved” parents; and “Wonderful” daughter, Teresa Larabee. Janice was a longtime member of Central Lutheran Church, which when closed, she and Don transferred membership to their current church home: St. Mark Evangelical Lutheran Church, whose pastoral kindness the family has been grateful for. The intention of Jan's family is to hold a Celebration of Life Service at St. Mark Evangelical Lutheran Church, 4475 Henry Street, Norton Shores, 49441, on Thursday, May 26, 2022, at 7:00 PM with refreshments following the service. An open greeting visitation with the family will be held beforehand from 6-7:00 PM on that day. We love you Janice, mom, and grandma. Our memories of you will continue to help us reach for life's best. May you rest in God’s rewarding peace! If you have a memory of Jan that you would associate with a charitable cause, please consider remembering her in that way.
What’s your fondest memory of Janice?
What’s a lesson you learned from Janice?
Share a story where Janice's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Janice you’ll never forget.
How did Janice make you smile?