Larry R. Strickland

Larry R. Strickland, age 69 of Grand Haven, passed away on Wednesday, January 29, 2020 at home. He was born on December 12, 1950 in Chicago, IL to the late Frank Fitzsimmons and Doris Villinave. Larry graduated from high school in Boystown, NE and then married Sheila Velasquez on November 30, 1974 in Chicago, IL.

Larry was owner/operator of Brouwer Brothers Steamatic for 30 years. He and Sheila were members of St. Patrick-St. Anthony Catholic Parish where Larry was active in the men’s group at the church, and was a participant in the Cursillo Movement. Prior to moving to the area, he was a member of St. Dennis Catholic Church in Illinois, where he was active in their men’s group.

He enjoyed spending any time he could on the water fishing or boating. Larry also enjoyed traveling, especially out to the east coast. His favorite pastime was baseball which led him to coaching kid’s baseball games. Larry will be remembered and missed by many.

Larry is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sheila; daughter, Shay (J.J.) Andre of Grand Haven; three sons: Scott Strickland of Grand Haven, Kristopher Strickland (Francine Marciniak) of Chicago, and Airforce SR Airman E-4, John Strickland, stationed in Texas; grandchildren, Taylor, Hailey, Ayden, Fynn, and Maleigha; sisters-in-law, Cathy Richards and Sandra Busch; brother-in-law, Glenn (Kimberly) Velasquez; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Jack Strickland.

The Memorial Service for Larry will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 3, 2020 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church with Fr. Charles Schwartz officiating.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, February 2, 2020 at Klaassen Family Funeral Home, from 2 – 4 p.m. and 6 – 8 p.m. with rosary reading at 7:30 p.m. by Deacon Lance Walters. There will also be a Visitation held one hour prior to the service at the church on Monday.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

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