Lawrence Myron Becker, age 70, of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully at his home on August 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, a treasured brother, a respected teacher, and a friend to many. Larry's presence, love, and the memories he created with everyone he met will be carried in their hearts forever.

Larry was born on September 23, 1955, in Greenville, Mississippi, to Lawrence Julius Becker and Phyllis Ann Becker. As the son of an Air Force serviceman, Larry Jr. spent much of his childhood traveling throughout the Midwest and beyond. His family's military life gave him the opportunity to see the world from a young age and experience things many people never have the chance to. When his family was stationed in England, Larry got his first job as a milkman, and one of the apartments on his delivery route belonged to the first 007, Sean Connery. During his time in England, he also got involved in the Boy Scouts, and his troop had the memorable opportunity to help rebuild a portion of Hadrian's Wall.

Larry learned the value of hard work at a young age while spending time working on his aunt and uncle's farm in Wisconsin. He carried that strong work ethic with him throughout his life. After graduating from high school early, Larry moved to Nebraska, where he would eventually meet the love of his life, Patricia Ann Harris. On November 20th, 1976, Larry and Patty were married in a church in Wintersville, Ohio and would be celebrating their golden 50th anniversary this year.

In 1975, Larry followed in his father's footsteps and joined the United States Air Force. Being stationed in New Mexico, the Philippines, Germany, and Nebraska he proudly served his country for 20 years. Working his way through the ranks, Larry started as an aircraft technician and later used his knowledge and experience to write manuals and teach Total Quality Management to fellow service members as a Master Sgt. His military career came to an end in 1995, when he was honorably discharged following a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.

When he wasn't working, Larry enjoyed playing guitar, darts, cards, bowling, cooking, spending time with family, going on adventures, and the great outdoors. He devoted much of his time to being a Boy Scout leader and mentor to many. Known as "Mr. B," he led Scouts through the mountains of the Philippines, taught them how to camp through the winter while living in Germany, and even showed them how to cook a meal in a cardboard box over a campfire in Nebraska. He took great pride in teaching young men self-respect, respect for others, and responsibility. Through sharing his love for the outdoors, fishing, cooking, hunting, camping, survival skills, and setting out on adventures, Mr. B helped shape generations of Scouts.

After his discharge from the military Larry and Patty moved their family to Minnesota. He dreamed of owning a resort and in December of 1999 that dream became a reality when they became the owners of Southwood Resort in Grand Rapids. For more than two decades, the resort became an important part of their family's life. Larry passed along many of his skills, his strong work ethic, and countless life lessons to his children and grandchildren. No matter which child he was working with, after completing a project he would say, "Not too bad for a one-eyed fat man and his side kick!"

Southwood Resort became a special place for the many families who returned year after year, creating traditions and memories of their own. Larry took great pride in the life he and Patty built there, but most of all, he cherished the friends that became family along the way. Unfortunately, Larry developed numerous health issues during this time as well. In 2021, Larry and Patty sold the resort and began a new chapter together, purchasing a cabin on the lake and moving into a beautiful townhome. The cabin became their new happy place—a place where Larry could continue to enjoy the outdoors he loved while making treasured memories with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Larry leaves behind Patricia Becker, April and Damian Heinkel, Scott and Tiffany Becker, grandchildren Tyler, Jacob, Caleb, Ethan, and Aubrey Vonhagen, Austin, Hunter, and Danny Becker, greatgrandchildren Greysen Vonhagen, River, Ezra, Ragnar, and Elizabeth Snell, sister Linda and her husband Kenny Patrick, sister Theresa Becker, and the many relatives and friends who were fortunate enough to know and love him. His absence will be deeply felt, but the love he gave, the lessons he taught, and the memories he created will remain with his family and friends forever. He will be remembered not only for the life he lived, but for the lives he touched simply by being an incredible husband, Dad, Grandpa, Great-Grandpa, brother, teacher, and friend.

Larry's wishes were to have a private celebration of life with his immediate family in late September. Thank you for your understanding.

Until we meet again, we love you to the moon and back, always and forever.