Larry Lyman Melendy

Larry Lyman Melendy , born January 29, 1942, passed away November 5, 2023, at his home, in the presence of his family. Larry was born in Mason, MI to parents Raymond A. and Glenadene Melendy. He attended Mason elementary schools and Adrian junior and senior high schools, graduating in 1960. He attended Olivet college, where he studied Education. As a student athlete he was on the track and football teams. Larry distinguished himself in track as a pole vaulter, as well as in the 440-yard dash and mile relay and was named Most Valuable Athlete. On the football team he played both offensive and defensive halfback, kicked extra points and field goals, and played on special teams. He was co-captain of the team and was named to the all-MIAA team in 1964. Loved by his college peers, he was elected Homecoming King as a senior. He graduated Olivet in 1964, and in 1982 achieved his MA degree from MSU in Classroom Education.

In 1966 he married MaryMartha Potts, whom he met at Olivet and with whom he celebrated fifty-seven years of marriage last June. He was a member of the Athens Congregational church (where they were married) and of the First Presbyterian Church of Hastings, where he taught elementary and adult Sunday school, served as a Deacon and Elder, started and led a men's golf fellowship, and led men's bible studies for several years.

Larry's profession was teaching; it was also his avocation. He had a great love for education, both his own and that which he was able to help students achieve.  He felt called to be a teacher early in his life, beginning his career in Waterford before coming to Hastings in 1966. He taught high school Latin and Social Studies before finding his niche in the middle school, where he taught Geography and American History. That he lived out his calling is demonstrated not only by his own satisfaction and enjoyment of "working with kids", but the many positive responses and affectionate interactions with former students long after they left his classroom. He worked diligently to ensure that all students had opportunity for success in his classes. He retired in 2000.

Larry's love for sports and teaching combined to make him a passionate, effective coach. Over the course of his career he coached high school football, soccer, wrestling, and middle school track. In addition, he participated in bringing youth soccer to the community. Stories of Larry striving alongside his athletes, participating in runs and drills and bringing out their very best, are treasured by his family. He deeply valued his relationships with his fellow coaches, whom he fondly called his "coaching buddies".

Larry valued excellence in all things. He held himself to a high standard as a husband, supporting, encouraging, and helping in a loving partnership with MaryMartha. Together, they enjoyed music and theater, and watching classic movie musicals. He was a proud and devoted father to daughter Michelle, finding delight in every aspect of being a dad. He was a loving and protective brother; a loving and instructive uncle to his nieces and nephews. Being called "Grampa" by four grandchildren, however, was his highest accolade. Watching his grandchildren participate in their chosen sports and activities brought him great joy.

Those who knew him knew of his unconditional and intense love for his family. His daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren returned that love in so many ways, particularly profoundly during the last week of his life with an early Thanksgiving celebration (during which each one gave him thanks for his contribution to their lives) and watching a Lions game. He was treated to much laughter and love as the family created a special experience for him and memories for themselves. His kind-hearted, witty nature and laughter will be especially missed.

His personal and professional affiliations included the Kappa Sigma Alpha Fraternity at Olivet College, the MEA and NEA, and First Presbyterian Church of Hastings.  He was a member of the Hastings Gideons Group for fifteen years; a member of the Hastings Lions Club for over 25 years. He was faithful to his beloved college, Olivet, attending as many Homecomings and special events as possible. He was inducted as a "Buzz Youngs Athletic Legend" by the Hastings Athletic Boosters in 2001; received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Olivet College (with his wife, MaryMartha) in 2011; was inducted into Olivet College's Athletic Hall of Fame in 2013 for his prowess in football and track. The couple also received the Book of Golden Deeds Award from the Hastings Exchange Club in 2010.

Larry is survived by his wife, MaryMartha; daughter, Michelle (Christian) Lahti; grandchildren, Benjamin (Angela) Lahti, Samuel (fiancée, Brianna Kramer) Lahti, Joshua Lahti, and Olivia Lahti; sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Albert Janutolo; sister-in-law, Ethel Melendy; brother-and-sister-in-law, William and Noralee Potts; five nieces, four nephews, and several great-nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Glenadene Melendy, and Raymond and Myrtle Melendy; brother, Douglas R. Melendy, and niece, Denise Janutolo.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 12, 2023, from 2:00 PM-4:00 PM at First Presbyterian Church, 405 N. M-37, Hastings, MI 49058.  Services will be held on Monday, November 13, 2023, at 11:00 AM with visitation one hour prior at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Memorial Fund of FPC (for support of Christian Education), the Hastings Athletic Boosters, or the Hastings Lions Club.   Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net.