Larry Alan Beld

Larry Alan Beld, age 76, of Nunica, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, July 15, 2025. He was born on October 20, 1948, in Grand Haven, MI, to the late Harold and Ruth (Peterson) Beld. He married Paula Sanders on January 21, 1967, in Spring Lake, MI. She preceded him in death on March 31, 1999, after 32 years of marriage.

Larry graduated from Spring Lake High School Class of 1966 and went on to earn his associates degree from Grand Valley State University. As a young man, Larry delivered newspapers for the Grand Haven Tribune, often stopping at Bill's Sport Shop along his route—a place where he later worked, briefly, and more importantly, where he met the love of his life, Paula, before beginning his career as a police officer.

He spent his career working in law enforcement for the Ottawa County Sheriff's Department as a Deputy for 32 years, retiring as Lieutenant. He also worked undercover for the Ottawa County Sheriff's WMET Department and as Investigator for the Muskegon County Prosecutor's Office, taught Patrol Operations at Grand Rapids Community College, and was an instructor for the Police Academy at Grand Valley State University. After a long career in police work, he became a long-haul truck driver for Gainey Transportation, Stormin Transportation, and Martin Transportation.

Larry and Paula traveled to all 50 states of the United States, including Alaska, and every Canadian Province together on his Gold Wing motorcycle. He loved to drive and knew every restaurant to stop at on the way to their destination. Larry was a Corvette enthusiast and owned five Corvettes of his own. Before Hondas had gained popularity, he convinced his father-in-law to become a Honda dealer, which he became very proud of.

Larry loved all animals, especially Buffalo, and the animals he had on his farm, which he was always actively working on, along with his yard.

Larry is forever remembered and missed by his family including his daughter, Michelle (Steve) Stout; and his son, Brian (Amy) Beld; seven grandchildren: Amanda (Gabe) Lee, Ryan (Katie) Stout, Branden (Kirby) Stout, Dustan Beld, Spencer Beld, Hope (Nick) Umlor, and Zach Craver; 10 great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law, Bill (Jean) Sanders and Randy (Vicky) Sanders; and his best friend and companion dog, Clare.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Paula; and daughter, Lisa Beld.

The Celebration of Life for Larry will be held on Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., at his home located at 12560 Leonard St., Nunica, MI 49448.

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