Larry Rea

Larry William Rea, age 72, of Grand Rapids was called home on Oct 27, 2023 at Meijer Heart Center.  His family gathered together as they said their goodbyes.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Ethelyn Rea.  He leaves behind his loving wife, Terry (Rosander) Rea, his two younger brothers, David and wife, Allison, and Gary and wife, Maria,  the mother of his children Marcia (Crago) Rea, his three children, Brian (45), Shauna (42), and Tyler (34), along with 6 grandchildren, Kailee, Jaidyn, Ayla, Braylon (aka Feller), Madilynn, Joanna, and 7 bonus grandkids that he adored. He also leaves behind close family members, Christopher, Carol (sister-in-law), bonus daughter Meg and husband Ben, and beloved daughter in law Stephanie along with many others that he loved.

Larry was raised in Gladwin and later moved to Bay City where he was a 3 sport athlete at John Glenn High School.  There he was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame in 2012.  After high school he attended the University of Michigan to study education and play basketball. He completed his degree in Education at Central Michigan University and later took graduate courses at MSU.  Larry was dedicated to his family, his teaching career, spent many years umpiring, and had a deep love for coaching. He touched countless lives that had great meaning to him of students and athletes throughout the years.  After a career of nearly 40 years he retired from public education in 2012 and enjoyed the past five years as a shuttle driver with Berger Chevrolet.  

The greatest love of Larry’s life was being a Papa to his grandchildren.  He was a devoted father and husband, protective and loyal, a truly amazing family man.  He was a great friend to many and cherished the time and memories made with them.  Larry leaves behind a great legacy that will be remembered for years to come.  His family is comforted in knowing that he was a man of deep faith and is now resting peacefully with the Lord.  

The Family will receive all who wish to celebrate the life and legacy of Larry W. Rea 2pm on Saturday, November 4th at Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Services.  Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service from 12 to 2pm at the funeral home.

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