Larry Tomlinson

Larry Matthew Tomlinson, 76, of Cedar, passed away on Friday, January 24, 2025 at his home. Larry was born on March 20, 1948 in Traverse City, to the late Hayes and Elaine (Valleau) Tomlinson. Larry was raised in the home his father built by hand on Veterans Drive in Traverse City, where he first attended the Gunton one-room school and later graduated from Traverse City Senior High in 1966. He served in the Army Reserves and was discharged honorably. His helpful and kind nature, along with his intuitive skill at working with his hands, led him to a career he enjoyed as an auto and RV mechanic, starting out part-time in high school at Dean’s Auto Sales which later became TC-RV. He was a loyal employee, sticking with the same job and company his entire working life of 49 years, and developed many cherished relationships with co-workers and customers. Putting his skills to work at home, he enjoyed sketching and building his ideas, such as a backyard zipline, his own corvette-styled dune buggy, and numerous home improvements. Larry shared his love of music, photography, skiing, reading, and nature with his daughter Libby throughout her childhood and beyond. They enjoyed annual road trips around the US, and at home, played frisbee in the front yard, and took many walks and ski outings on their acreage in Leelanau County, accompanied by the family pets. He was delighted to become a grandfather to Sam, and loved camping and playing with him. In the late 90’s, Larry developed a friendship with Rhonda, and after a two-year courtship and despite their age difference, they couldn’t deny they were soul mates. Rhonda was most attracted to his love, devotion and loyalty that he displayed to his family and friends. During their 23 years of marriage, they loved to travel, with South and East Africa being their favorite places of all. He is preceded in death by his parents and younger brother James “Jimmy” Tomlinson. Larry is survived by his wife Rhonda Tomlinson (née Niles), daughter Elizabeth “Libby” (Ed Reynolds) Tomlinson, brothers Bill (Cindy) Tomlinson, Jeff Tomlinson and Steve (Hope) Tomlinson, and his grandson, Sam Reynolds. He is also survived by his former spouse Judith (Julian Habrowski) Skory, nephews Andrew (Lisa) Tomlinson, Jacob (Amanda) Tomlinson, Matthew Tomlinson, and two grand nieces, Linnaea and Valla Tomlinson. Larry wished to be cremated and have his ashes spread at his favorite locations in Leelanau County. May the beauty of this place Larry called home for a lifetime evoke fond memories of him. A celebration of his life will be held on August 10th at 2pm, at Twin Lakes Park Pavilion. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation in Larry’s memory to Leelanau Christian Neighbors Food Pantry in Lake Leelanau, MI.

Larry Tomlinson

March 20, 1948 - January 24, 2025