Larry Furtaw

Larry Neil Furtaw, age 85, passed away peacefully at his home in Portage, Michigan, on July 20, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Larry was born on January 19, 1941, in Rogers City, Michigan, to Edward and Myra (Hopp) Furtaw. He grew up in Rogers City, where he developed a strong work ethic and a lifelong appreciation for the Great Lakes. As a young man, Larry worked as a cook for US Steel sailing the Great Lakes-an experience he always treasured.

While in Rogers City, Larry met the love of his life, Susan Urban, who was waitressing at the Cozy Corner. The two were married on February 3, 1962, and soon afterward moved to Kalamazoo to begin raising their family. Larry worked throughout his career at Shakespeare, Gibson Guitar, and ultimately General Motors, where he remained until retiring in the early 1990s.

Larry and Susan were charter members of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Portage, where their faith became an important part of their lives. Together they enjoyed traveling north to visit family and creating lasting memories. Following Susan's passing on September 10, 2001, Larry eventually found companionship once again with Linda Stafford, whom he had known through church. They were married on May 21, 2005, and shared over two decades filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Together they traveled extensively throughout the United States, visiting Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming, Texas, Chicago, and many other destinations by plane and train. They also enjoyed traveling abroad, with Spain holding a special place among their favorite destinations.

Larry's faith was reflected in his generous spirit and willingness to serve others. At St. Catherine of Siena, he faithfully volunteered wherever help was needed, especially through the custodial ministry. If there was work to be done for the parish, Larry could often be found quietly lending a hand.

An avid hobbyist, Larry found joy in creating detailed model airplanes, particularly those from the World War II era. He loved gardening and took great pride in maintaining his yard and landscaping, always happiest when he could spend time outdoors staying active. Music was another lifelong passion. With an extensive record collection spanning countless decades and genres, Larry delighted in discovering new songs while surfing the radio. He was also a talented artist who enjoyed drawing and painting, often creating whimsical cartoons that brought smiles to those around him.

Above all else, Larry cherished his family. Some of his greatest happiness came from spending time with his grandchildren-watching them during the day, taking them to the Air Zoo, museums, zoos, the beach, and creating countless memories that they will carry with them forever. His kindness, patience, playful spirit, and unwavering love made him a treasured husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Larry is survived by his wife Linda, children Julie Matteson, Jeff (Cori) Furtaw and Eric Furtaw, step-daughters Erin (Clint) Butcher and Molly (Brian) Mastey, grandchildren Lance Matteson, Shannon (Jake) Berent, Sarah Matteson, Alex Furtaw, Casey Furtaw, Joey Furtaw, Holly Furtaw, Kate Downs, and Jack Downs; brother Mike (Linda) Furtaw, brother-in-law John Killey, and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Myra Furtaw, wife Susan Furtaw, brother Charles "Chuck" Furtaw, and sister Carol Killey.

Services for Larry will be held at Langeland Family Funeral Home 411 East Centre Ave. Portage, MI 49002 on Monday, July 27. Visitation will be at 11 AM until the service begins at noon, followed by a graveside prayer at Portage South Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Larry's memory to Loaves and Fishes 901 Portage Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49001, Centrica Care Navigators 7100 Stadium Dr, Kalamazoo, MI 49009, and SPCA of Southwest Michigan 6955 W KL Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49009.

Please visit Larry's memorial webpage to share memories and condolences with his family at https://www.Langelands.com