Larry Spencer's Obituary
Larry Dale Spencer Sr, 88, of Fort Myers, FL passed away peacefully on June 30, 2025. Larry was born May 15, 1937, to Lynn and Bernice (Haggadone) Spencer in Oxford, Michigan.
He attended Oxford high school where he was on the football, basketball, baseball and track teams. He earned 15 varsity letters in his four years and in 2018 he was inducted into the Oxford High School Athletic Hall of Fame. In 1954 he helped lead the Wildcats to an undefeated 8-0 football season, and in basketball he was the leading scorer in all of Oakland County. In 1956, after graduating from Oxford HS, Larry began serving his country by joining the National Guard fighting fires in Grayling Michigan. After that, he expanded his service by joining the Marine Corps, where he advanced to the rank of Corporal. When he completed his military service, he returned to Michigan and enrolled at Olivet College. While at Olivet, he again demonstrated his athletic abilities, earning eight letters – four in football and four in baseball. He was chosen by his fellow players to be Captain of the football team in 1961 and 1962 and was a member of the 1961 All-MIAA football team. Larry was inducted into the Olivet College Athletic Hall of Fame in 1989. Larry met Virginia Ann Thalner while they were both at Olivet and they were married in 1964 in Buffalo New York. Larry worked at Chrysler Corporation for 30 years, and after retiring pursued his love of driving as a long-haul truck driver. When Virginia also retired, they moved to Florida to enjoy their winters there, and their summers back in Michigan. Larry loved to play golf, go deep sea fishing, boating, and of course watching his favorite football teams.
Larry was predeceased by his mother (Bernice), father (Lynn)and his three sisters (Geraldine, Marilyn, and Alma). He is survived by his wife Virginia, sons Robert and Larry Dale Jr (Brenda) and daughter Jennifer Martin (Josh), as well as seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
Larry's family has entrusted Fort Myers Memorial Gardens with the tender care of his final arrangements. There will be a memorial service in his honor Saturday, July 5, 2025, at 11AM with a gathering time at 10AM. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Wounded Warrior project.
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