Lawrence Grandy, 74, a longtime Hinsdale resident, passed away peacefully Feb. 22, 2024, at his home.
He was born in Indianapolis in 1950. He graduated from Hinsdale Central High School in 1968 and was a proud alum of the University of Michigan. He developed many dear lifelong friendships, especially with his high school classmates.
Larry excelled in much of what he did. In athletics, he pitched a no-hitter in Little League. He rose to the level of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts. In high school, he excelled and lettered in football, basketball and track and field. His high school activities included serving on the board of the Hinsdale Youth Center and being active in the Christian youth group Young Life. He was a fine example of "Once a Red Devil, always a Red Devil."
What many will remember about Larry is his kindness and generosity. He was a guy you could count on, a devoted friend, a genuine and caring soul. His passions were his guitars and his friendships - he had lots and lots of both and valued each and every one. Larry loved deeply and he was deeply loved.
This year's University of Michigan's Rose Bowl win over the University of Alabama in overtime brought him immeasurable joy. His first dog, Bogey, an extra-large Rhodesian Ridgeback, and his last dog, Roxy, a very lucky rescue dog, each special in their own way, made Larry very happy, as they truly were his best friends.
Larry spent 30 years in upper management with Harbour Contractors and the O'Hare Airport Transit System Inc. He was instrumental in a leadership role in many projects, including securing new rail for the people mover system from Taiwan.
Larry loved all his family. He was devoted to his Kelsey whom he considered his daughter, and was "Papa" to her daughters, Abbey and Penny.
He is survived by his brother, Richard (LingLing) Grandy; his sister, Deborah (Richard) Burns; his nephew, Stephen Grandy; and his nieces Laura Greco (Louis) and Julie Burns.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert "Bob" and Rae Grandy; and his nephew, Adam Grandy.
Visitation is at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 23, at Adolf & Powell Funeral Home, 7000 S. Madison St, Willowbrook.
A celebration of life memorial service will begin at 3 p.m. followed by a reception at the funeral home.
