Lawrence H. Whiteford

February 19, 1932 - April 3, 2020

Lawrence H. Whiteford, 88, of Traverse City, passed away April 3, 2020, at the French manor Living in Traverse City with his son Greg by his side. Larry was born on February 19, 1932 to the late Hugh and Carol (Green) Whiteford in Mancelona, Michigan. Larry proudly served the United States Army, stationed in Fort Bliss in El Paso Texas, receiving the National Defense Service Medal. He was also a devoted member of the Faith Reformed Church since 1966. Larry graduated from East Jordan High School in 1950. After being drafted with the Army, he attended Sault Ste Marie Branch MI Tech (LSSU) beginning in 1960 and graduated in 1962 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology. On May 11, 1956 he married Eleanor VanderArk. His work history includes time with the East Jordan Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter, working as a Die Setter/Press operator at Mount Clemens Metal Products, Co-Owner of East Jordan Tool and Die and then working for Boyne Products which later transferred him to Traverse City. After the transfer to Traverse City he worked with Boyne Products Tool which later turned into Essex Wire where he was the tool room supervisor and in Engineering. He then changed his career path for a bit to selling industrial supplies for A.D. Schneider and Lakeshore Machinery and Supply. Eventually he returned to tool and die and worked for TC Tool, Altair and Circuit Controls Corporation and ended his career as the Engineering Manager at Grand Traverse Stamping. Following retirement from G.T. Stamping, Larry and Eleanor enjoyed many winters in Florida. In addition to his love for spending time with family, he also enjoyed golfing. Larry is survived by his son Gregory of Traverse City, his daughter Sandra Rautio of Key Largo, grandchildren; Amy Jean, Matthew James, Layla Rose and Alyssa Grace, sisters Bethany (Gary) Norton and Diane as well as brother-in-law Mike Postmus and sister-in-laws Nan Wertman and Lyndel VanderArk-Jensen. He is preceded in death by his wife, his parents, his sisters Suzie Bennett and Natalie Postmus, brother Jack, sister-in-law Greta and brother-in-laws Peter VanderArk, Keith VanderArk and Warren Bennett. Those wishing an expression of sympathy may choose to do so in Larry’s honor to the Faith Reformed Church Youth Programs. Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your thoughts with the family. Larry and his family are being cared for by the Reynold Jonkhoff Funeral Home.