Larry Barlow

Although Lawrence Richard Barlow was here for only a short time, he was able to teach us so many life lessons. His outgoing approach to life showed those around him that there is an immense amount of merit to actively pursuing your goals. As an amazing son and a great friend to many, he went through life with an eagerness and excitement possessed only by the brightest of minds.

It was March 9, 1988 when Rick and Edna (Lovell) Barlow welcomed the birth of their third child, Lawrence. He was also called Larry or Barlow, as his older siblings Toni and Rae Ann would call him many things throughout the years. Growing up in Plainwell, Michigan, Larry could be found all over his neighborhood, but especially liked to hang out with all the kids in their neighbor, Lucy's, yard.

With the family running their own business, Rabidoux-Barlow Heating and Cooling, Larry learned early on that hard work and determination were key components of success. Beginning at age 9, Larry was involved in helping his dad with all aspects of running the business. These were lessons that he was able to apply to his passions, with sports at the forefront of his activities. He was involved in Northwood Little Leage, freestyle wrestling, Rocket Football, and Plainwell Hoopsters. It was not unusual for Larry to be on the move. He was always full of energy and ready for more challenges, racing from one sport to the next in a flash.

Family was incredibly important to Larry, and he always looked forward to hunting and fishing with his dad each chance he got. His favorite time of the year was Opening Day of Deer Gun Season. He also did bow hunt, and was very proud of the skill he had built up over years of practice. He was also known as one of the Pine Lake Boys, staying active in everything he could.

Larry attended Plainwell High School, and was well known for his involvement in school sports. Although Larry was able to get decent grades, he was really able to excel in a team environment. He was on the Football Varsity Team for 3 yrs. (senior year he was All-Conference Center), Wrestling Varsity for 4 years, and placed 7th in the State for the 171lbs weight class. He also played a year of JV baseball his sophomore year. Larry also began snowboarding at a young age, and made so many friends through each of his activities. He was always very popular among his classmates, and was an easy person to be drawn to because of his enthusiastic outlook.

After graduating high school in 2006, Larry went to Central Michigan University for a year, while continuing to work with his dad in the business. It was not unlike Larry to have a lot on his plate all at once, since he was eager to meet life's challenges and would dive head first into everything he did. In addition to that, he then took a job as a security guard at Viper Security. Recently, Larry had gotten interested in Disc Golf, which gave him many opportunities to spend time outdoors, where he loved to be.

Sports were not the only thing Larry loved. He was very moved by music, and was the type of person who could enjoy all genres with no problem. He was his own physical trainer, and was sure to always be looking his best, with style at the top of his game. He loved his mom's homemade enchiladas, and one of his favorite things to devour were tacos or taco salad.

Sadly, Lawrence R. Barlow, age 21 of Plainwell, passed away on Saturday, May 23, 2009. He will be remembered for his courageous heart and his moving spirit, showing us all that we can tackle life's challenges with a positive attitude and a willingness to work hard for the things we want.

Larry is survived by his parents: Rick and Edna Barlow, of Plainwell; two sisters: Toni Sumerix, of Kalamazoo; and Rae Ann Barlow, of Plainwell; two nephews Mark Danial, and Kevin Joseph Sumerix, both of Kalamazoo. He is also survived by his paternal grandparents: Lawrence and Mariann Barlow, of NY; and Aunts and Uncles: Margaret Numiz, of NY; Sue (Ron) Barney, of NY; Joanna Black, of CT; Cathy (Mike) Drew, of Augusta; Mary (John) Ozga, of IL; Pat (Ted) Rickwa, of ID; and numerous loving cousins

Learn more about Larry, view his Life Story film, and visit with his family and friends, and share light refreshments, Wednesday and Thursday from 4 to 7 at the Life Story Funeral Home, 120 S. Woodhams, Plainwell (685-5881). The funeral service will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Plainwell on Friday, May 29, 2009 at 11 AM. Burial will take place at the Hillside Cemetery.

Please visit Larry’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you can read his life story, archive a favorite memory or photo, sign his memory book online before coming to the funeral home or make a memorial donation to the Plainwell Rocket Football.