Obituary of Larry Gilstorff

Larry Lee Gilstorff was born in Monroe on January 22, 1943. He was one of six children born from the union of Edward and Odessa (Geiman) Gilstorff. Growing up on the Geiman Farm he learned the value of a hard day's work at an early age. Larry attended Holy Ghost being baptized, confirmed, and educated. He graduated from Monroe High School with the Class of 1961 lettering in football. Larry was offered the opportunity to continue his playing days at Michigan State University but instead chose to attend Monroe County Community College. Larry married the former Judith "Judy" Ann Pluff on November 18, 1967 at St. Mary's in Rockwood. He was a proud and devoted husband and father to his wife and six children. Larry instilled his work ethic in his children working several years at the Ford Motor Company, Woodhaven Stamping Plant. For many years he worked as a mechanic owning an operating a Gulf Service Station before retiring in 1985. Larry was generous and caring. It was even said that he would give the shirt off his back to someone in need. He loved horses and pony pulling and enjoyed giving rides to the neighborhood children. Larry had a great sense of humor, and loved to tease. He was very athletic enjoyed weight lifting and playing softball through his church. He had a 54" chest and earned his nickname, "Moose" by dead lifting a Chevy 350 engine. He had a special relationship with Judy and together they led several Boy Scout Troops. Larry, age 72 of Maybee passed away at home on Thursday, June 4, 2015. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by his wife: Judy, who passed November 7, 2014; three siblings: Earl and William Gilstorff, and Pearl Boik. To cherish his memory he leaves six children: Fred (Elena) Gilstorff, KelliAnn (Mark) Hume, Stacy (Tim) Tennyson of Deerfield, Ed (Brandie) Gilstorff, Kevin Gilstorff, and Keith (Mickie) Gilstorff; two sisters: Ruth Ann (Jerry) Lands and Mary Ellen Moyer; seven grandchildren and five step grandchildren including: Jacob, Aaron, and Emily Gilstorff, Derek Vandemark, Jade, Zachery, and Garrett Gilstorff, Alex Morgan, Chad Hume, Cassie (Kendall) McDaniel, Timothy and Tyler Tennyson. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 1:00pm, Saturday, June 6, 2015 at LMR Fire Station, 8755 Baldwin Road, Maybee. Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe (734) 384-5185 has been entrusted with his arrangements. Memorials are suggested to the Gilstorff family. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.