Lawrence Daniel Domzalski

LEXINGTON- Lawrence Daniel Domzalski, 89, of Lexington, MI, bid farewell to this world on July 4, 2024, after a very brief illness - choosing Independence Day to make his final exit, a fitting date for a man who valued freedom. Born in Detroit, MI to Boleslaus M. and Helen, Larry was a man who lived life on his own terms, yet always with an eye towards helping others. Larry grew up with a strong work ethic, a mischievous twinkle in his eye, and a deep-seated belief in the importance of community service. A man of unwavering integrity, he was known for his kind heart, quick wit, and an uncanny ability to fix anything with sheer determination. Throughout his life, Larry embodied the principle of service above self, finding countless ways to contribute to his community and support those around him. His life was a testament to the impact one person can have when they dedicate themselves to the wellbeing of others, all while maintaining a sense of humor and adventure. A proud Army Veteran, Larry served in the 4th Armored Division from 1953-1955 during the Korean War, an experience that left him with a lifelong appreciation for punctuality, well-shined shoes and a well-made bed. His service instilled in him a deep sense of duty and patriotism that he carried throughout his life. Interestingly, this patriotism coexisted with a strong distrust of politicians. Larry often quipped that he loved his country deeply but wished he could send most of its leaders on a one-way trip to the moon. He believed in the ideals of America while maintaining a healthy skepticism towards those in power, regardless of party affiliation. This blend of patriotism and political discontent made for lively debates at family gatherings and ensured that no election season was ever dull in the Domzalski household. Larry's career was as varied as his interests. He started as a telephone lineman at Michigan Bell, climbing poles and dodging squirrels, before working his way up to District Manager over 29 years. Not content with retirement, he went on to work at Robins and Telcom Communications before establishing "The Hired Man" - a family business that showcased his jack-of-all-trades skills. His stint in ground maintenance at Big Beaver Airport in Troy, MI only fueled his love for aviation, while his time at Fraser Mfg. Corp kept his problem-solving skills sharp. A pillar of his community, Larry served as an ordained ruling elder of Bethany Presbyterian Church in Detroit, MI, where his pragmatic approach to faith often led to lively discussions. His unique blend of traditional values and unconventional beliefs, including a firm conviction in reincarnation, made for fascinating conversations and occasionally raised eyebrows among his family and friends. Larry's involvement in Freemasonry was a source of great pride. As Worshipful Master of Masonic Lodge #477 & #61 and a life member at Lodge #58, he embraced the fraternity's principles of brotherly love, relief, and truth and never missed a chance to don his tuxedo with tails and top hat - even if it meant enduring good-natured ribbing from his family that he was “Putting on the Ritz”. A thrill-seeker at heart, Larry fulfilled his dream of becoming a private pilot later in life, proving it's never too late to spread your wings. When he wasn't soaring through the skies, you'd find him in his garage-turned-workshop where he could disassemble and reassemble an engine blindfolded, happily covered in grease and muttering about the "darn newfangled parts." His projects often started with "I think I can improve this" and ended with either triumph or a creative explanation of why the original design was actually better. Larry's love story with MaryLou Grunow spanned 48 years and was an adventure filled with love, laughter, and enough family shenanigans to fill a book – or perhaps a sitcom. Together, they crisscrossed 26 states and 2 countries. Their mission? To visit every out-of-town relative as often as humanly (and mechanically) possible. Their family trips were a perfect blend of planned excursions and spontaneous detours, always ending with strengthened family bonds, new friends, and stories that grew taller with each retelling. From impromptu family reunions in campgrounds to Larry's infamous "shortcuts", their travels became the stuff of family legend. Larry's dedication to maintaining these family connections through travel became a cherished tradition. As a father, Larry shone brightest. He was a force of nature - part MacGyver, part Houdini, with a dash of Willy Wonka thrown in for good measure. He built elaborate tree houses that defied physics, created backyard ice ponds that turned winter into a wonderland, and never met a teachable moment he didn't like, turning even the most mundane tasks into adventures. He passed on his love of the outdoors and his uncanny ability to start fires in any weather. His DIY approach to parenting meant that every problem was an opportunity for a life lesson, usually involving his holy trinity: duct tape, WD-40, and a dad joke so bad it made you groan and grin at the same time. In his later years, Larry found companionship with Diane Wittner, proving that love can bloom again at any age. Together, they mastered the art of movie marathons, with Larry providing colorful commentary on everything from historical inaccuracies to improbable car chases. Almost every evening they would engage in fierce card game battles, their banter and laughter filling the room. They perfected the art of enjoying each other's company, with conversation flowing freely between them. Their relationship was marked by a lively, constant dialogue that kept them both on their toes and thoroughly entertained. Larry's friendship with Emil Jerry Camaiore and Richard Pineau spanned decades, surviving countless camping trips, failed DIY projects, and heated debates about the best way to grill a steak. These bonds were a source of strength and endless amusement throughout his life. Larry is survived by his daughter Chris D. and son Jeffrey D., who will miss his sage advice and dad jokes in equal measure. He also leaves behind his second love Diane Wittner and her children John and Rick (Tammy). He also shared in the joy of Diane's grandchildren Emily, Max, Andrew, Veronica, Sam, Amrie and Anica, and great-grandchildren Dylan and Levi who knew him as the guy who always had a smile and a trick up his sleeve. He was preceded in death by his parents Boleslaus and Helen, his wife MaryLou, and his siblings Boleslaus "Bill" Jr., Robert "Bob", Thomas "TC", Dorothy, and Gerald Douglis. Larry is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews: Mark (Elizabeth), Kita Rael (Pat), Sara, Andrea (Rick), Tamara (Frank), Sue (Jim), David (Brenda), Nancy, Lance (Teresa), Shelley (Joe), Kelley, and Karen (Donald). He was predeceased by his nephew Steven. He was also predeceased by his cherished friends Emil (Pat) Camaiore and Richard (Dolores) Pineau. A celebration of Larry's colorful life will be held on August 17, 2024, in Dryden, MI. Expect stories, laughter, and maybe a few grumbles from beyond. For details, contact Chris at (810)706-0038. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests taking a moment to tinker with something, learn a new skill, or simply enjoy a sunset but most of all, consider making a politician squirm - Larry would have liked that.

Lawrence Daniel Domzalski

August 21, 1934 - July 4, 2024