Larry James Fischer's Obituary
Larry James Fischer of Grand Haven, Michigan, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on November 4, 2022, at the age of 83. He was born on May 19, 1939 in Muskegon, Michigan, to George and Margaret (Vanderberg) Fischer.
Larry lived a life of cars. After graduating from Muskegon High School in 1957, he and his twin brother, Jerry, joined their father in his car dealership, Bowen-Fischer Motors. Larry was later joined in the business by his son, Greg. Larry was generous with his time and talents, quick to help his family, friends, and customers.
Cruising was a theme throughout Larry’s life. It was while cruising around the oval in Grand Haven in his Studebaker Golden Hawk, that he met and eventually fell in love with and married, a darling Grand Haven gal named Judy. They celebrated 62 years of marriage this past May 28.
Larry collected classic cars, and could often be found cruising the town in his Jeeps, AMX, Avantis, and Studebakers. Participating in car shows, or meeting with his car-loving friends for lunch, was something Larry always looked forward to.
His days of cruising on the water began when Larry and Jerry were boys, and motored through the waters around Muskegon. Along with his wife and children, Larry spent many hours in their Slickcraft, “Sport-About”, enjoying sun-filled days on Lake Michigan. His cruise ship travels throughout the Caribbean with Judy, her siblings and their spouses, and many friends, brought him much joy.
Larry lived his life with a bit of shenanigans and a whole lot of passion. He was fiercely proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He found great pleasure in attending their events, encouraging them in all of their endeavors, and creating memories with them up north at the cabin.
Larry was a member of the Studebaker Club, and was a Life Member of the Elks. Often alongside his good friend, and brother-in-law, Bill, he enjoyed the camaraderie of his Elk friends.
Larry lives on through his family who lovingly survive him, including his wife Judith; children: Larry II (Kristin) Fischer of Vicksburg, Michigan, Melinda (Christopher) Mendels of Spring Lake, and Greg Fischer and friend, Pat Muskovin, of Grand Haven; grandchildren: Lindsay (Dr. David) Arboleda, Aly (Ethan) Meyer, Nicholas Mendels and fiancé Morgan Khem, Cody (Emma) Fischer, Mycah Fischer, and Alison Fockler; great-grandchildren: Marlowe, Macklin, and Merrick Meyer, and Mason Fischer.
Larry is also survived by his brothers-in-law Bill Fochtman, Edward Brandel, and Bruce Williams, sisters-in-law Madelyn (Jack) Bouman, Marian Cox, Bobbi (Ken) Ely, Margarete Fochtman, and Anita Fischer, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Joyce Witt and Jean Williams, twin brother Jerry Fischer, sisters-in-law Beverly Fochtman and Linda Brandel, and brothers-in-law Melvin Witt, Paul Fochtman, and David Cox.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, December 2, 2022, from 4-6 pm, at the Elks in Grand Haven. A private family graveside service was held at Lake Forest Cemetery.
Those who wish to send a donation in Larry’s memory may direct memorial contributions to Hospice of North Ottawa Community or to The Studebaker Drivers Club. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com
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