Lawrence Joseph Jonaus

Lawrence Joseph Jonaus, age 86, of Grand Haven, passed away on Monday July 16, 2018 at home.  Larry was born July 3, 1932 in Gaastra, Michigan, the youngest child of Joseph and Mary (Gregones) Jonaus.  Larry was the loving husband of Joline (McCarthy) Jonaus for more than 58 years.  Larry attended Marquette University, where he earned his undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1954, and his MBA from Grand Valley State University in 1978.  Larry was commissioned as a naval officer in 1954, and served his country both in the United States Navy and United States Naval Reserve, and served as the commanding officer of the Muskegon Unit, Naval Reserve, 9th Naval District.

Larry retired as General Manager of Standard Automotive in 1994. He loved living on the water in both Michigan and Florida.  Larry enjoyed golfing, despite being challenged by his swing, and accomplished not one, but two holes-in-one, one on his 75th birthday.  He was also an avid fan of the Detroit Tigers and Green Bay Packers.  His greatest love, however, was spending time with his family and being involved with each child’s and grandchild’s activities, whether it be sports, theatre or music.  He was a great husband, father and grandfather and a role model for all of his family.  He was a true gentleman and a leader by example.  He was an inspiration to all who knew him.

Larry is survived by Joline and their five loving children: Mary Carole (Tom) Cotter of Grand Haven, Laura Jonaus of Lake Bluff, IL, Anne (David) Peterson of Brookfield, WI, Kathleen (Mike) Ginocchio of Grand Haven and Lawrence (Sarah) Jonaus of Columbus, OH.  He is further survived by fourteen grandchildren: Courtney, Danny, Allison and Will Cotter, Jane and Kate Schumacher, Jack, Eileen and Elizabeth Peterson, Michael and Maggie Ginocchio and Anna, Clara and Joseph Jonaus, all of whom will cherish his memory.

A private family service with full military rites performed by the VFW Sgt. Alvin Jonker Post 2326 will be held.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Marquette University, Opus College of Engineering Scholarship Fund, University Advancement Gift Services, 1250 West Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53201 or online at www.give.marquette.edu.

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