Larry D. Habel

We are implementing a new program, “Hugs from Home”, that will allow people confined to their homes to share a token of love and support. White balloons will be placed in the chapel with notes from those that call in with messages or from our website” Larry D. Habel, 72, of Galien, MI passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2020, at home. A celebration of Life gathering will be held publicly at a later date. Due to current events, the family will celebrate privately at this time. A private burial will take place in Galien Cemetery with military honors rendered by the Buchanan American Legion, Post 51 and the United States Air Force. Memorial contributions may be made to Caring Circle Hospice. The family encourages everyone to go to www.swemchapel.com, or call in to leave your condolences or memories for them to reflect on. Arrangements have been entrusted to Swem Chapel, Buchanan, MI. Larry was born on December 31, 1947 in Michigan City, IN to the late Lawrence and Mollie (Krumm) Habel. Larry grew up in Galien, Michigan and graduated in 1966 from Galien High School. Soon after high school he enlisted into the United States Air Force where he served for over 4 years as a Staff Sergeant. Shortly after joining the military, Larry met the love of his life, Janice Marie Nocera, and the two wed on April 20, 1968. The two eventually made their home in Galien Michigan where they raised two children, Lisa Marie Habel and Craig Victor Habel. Larry worked at Clark Equipment upon returning from his military career and then went on to become a United Parcel Delivery driver for 32 years, retiring in 2009. During his career he was named to the prestigious, “Circle of Honor,” at UPS for his 31 years of safe driving. Larry served as a volunteer fireman for the Bertrand Township Fire Department for 20 years. During his lifetime Larry enjoyed attending various racing events as well as car shows. His interest for hot rods and horsepower drove him to obtain his ASE mechanic certification. Larry had a talent in metal working and constructed many things as a hobby in his home shop. Larry purchased a project truck in 1986, a 1946 Chevrolet pickup that he dreamed of crafting into a street rod someday. As he always did, Larry put his family and their needs ahead of him and he waited to build his dream street rod until the time was right. Eventually he began work on the project and completed it in 2010. Larry was very proud of this truck and the fact that he built most of it all on his own. He went on to enjoy this truck going from car show to car show, bringing home a room full of trophies. Although Larry had a love for his hobbies, his biggest love was for his family. He was a devoted family man and took great pride in providing for them. Larry and his wife were the most dedicated grandparents a couple could be. A special bond was created between him and his three grandchildren and, “Papa,” has become a legend in their eyes. Larry was an honest hardworking man who enjoyed people and touched many lives. He was a great listener and would strike up a conversation with anyone; people would immediately be drawn to his friendly and open personality. Larry fought a courageous battle with lung cancer for over 5 years and went to be with the lord on March 18, 2020. Larry is survived by his wife of 51 years, Janice; daughter, Lisa (Dan) Traeger of Niles, MI; son, Craig (Becki) Habel of Portage, MI; grandchildren, Chloe Hargreaves, Isabella Habel and Andrew Habel; and two brothers-Randall (Jennifer) Habel of Arlington, WA and Ronald (Barbara) Habel of Harvest, AL. He was preceded in death by his parents.