Lawrence James Lynch

The world lost a hero on April 1st when Lawrence James Lynch, age 86, slipped away after a long bout with cancer. Of course, Larry (Toogy) Lynch would never describe himself as a hero – he was way too modest for that. He was, however, a hero to those whose lives he touched. Larry, born in Chicago on November 29, 1930 to Elvie and Bro Lynch, was married for 61 years to the love of his life and light of his world, Violet Lynch, who resides in New Buffalo. Larry also leaves four children who idolized him, but could still get mad when he tried to boss them around. But for every single day of his life, Larry loved his family and wanted them to be happy and healthy. He never missed a single day of love. Children he loved include: Daughter, Nancy, and husband Keith Harrower, Minnesota, plus their children, Leah and Sam; Daughter, Janet Lynch and husband Rick Bustinza, California, and children Tyler and Linnea; Daughter, Pamela Lynch, and her children Alexandria and Cosmo, New Buffalo; and son, Michael Lynch, with his wife, Cheryl, New Buffalo. Larry will be missed by his beloved sister, Helen, and her husband and his friend, Jim Jordan, plus their children: Son, Patrick Jordan, New Jersey, and daughter Sandi, with her husband, Jimbo Bivens, and sons Jordan and Jimmy, of Louisville, Ky. Plus the many names of friends and family from around the area who knew and loved Larry! He loved all of you, too. Larry was a man of many friends. He rubbed elbows with rich and poor, old and young alike, searching for a story and a new friend, and offering help to many along the way. He was a licensed Michigan builder who built and remodeled many beautiful homes in the area. Larry was always quick to show up with his tools and lend a helping hand with repairs. He also was in the Brotherhood of Railway Workers for many years when he lived and worked in Chicago. Larry was a distinguished combat veteran of the Korean War; he served as a corporal in the Army where he was awarded a Bronze Service Star, Combat Infantry Badge, and an honorable discharge in 1953. Larry was very social and active around town, helping with repairs and offering advice, and in recent years Larry was a regular member of the American Legion Post 169, whose companionship meant a lot to him. For those who would like to say goodbye and safe journey to Larry, there will be a visitation starting at noon on Saturday, April 8th at Sommerfeld Chapel, 15 North Barton Street, New Buffalo, followed by funeral services at 2:00 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations should be addressed to the American Legion Post #169, New Buffalo. The family and Larry thank the staff of St. Anthony Hospital, Michigan City, for their care and kindness to all. Friends wishing to leave the family a message of condolence may do so at www.sommerfeldchapel.com