Larry Potter of Wayland died Tuesday, Feb. 27. He was 80 years old.

Larry was born June 21, 1943 to Kenneth and Helen Potter of Shelbyville. He was the older brother of Gloria Chapman, who preceded him in death.

As a lifelong resident of Michigan, Larry learned about, and embraced, the outdoor life at a very young age. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, which included many annual trips to Rice Lake in Canada to bluegill fish with his lifelong friends. He also enjoyed golfing, mushroom hunting, and attending his kids’ and grandkids’ activities. Larry was a very athletic young man, playing both football and baseball for Wayland Wildcat teams.

After graduation, Larry was anticipating going off to college, but there was a very special someone back home, so he rescinded that decision and became a “TEAM” with, and wed the love of his life, Stevie Andringa on Oct. 20, 1963. They welcomed three amazing children, making their home complete.

Larry and Stevie were fortunate to travel, visiting the national parks, had two trips to Hawaii, many cruises, and several other destinations in the United States and abroad.

Larry was a devoted family man andamazing provider for his family, putting in long hours at various employers. Most of his working career was at Steelcase from which he retired after 35 years.

At the onset of Larry’s health issues, it was recommended that he take up some type of physical activity, so Larry became an avid walker and bicyclist. He was dedicated to doing what it took to be healthy and he never deviatedt. Later in life, as the physical activity became more difficult, he would be seen in his red Chevy truck where he would “make his rounds” on the streets of Wayland.

Larry is survived by his wife of 61 years, Stevie; children Lori Saxton, Tim (Bethany) Potter, Lisa (Matt) Edney; grandchildren Randy and Alyssa Bradley, Hanna and Levi Potter, Lexie and Isaiah Edney; great-grandchildren Cameron and Carter Thomas, Brody and Zoey Kasper, Lincoln and Liam Potter.

A celebration of life has been scheduled for 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 23, at United Church of Wayland. All are welcome.