Lawrence Michael Sauger

Lawrence Michael Sauger, "Larry," age 70 of Sterling Heights, died Friday, February 12, 2016 at St. John Macomb-Oakland Hospital, Oakland Center in Madison Heights, Michigan. He was born August 10, 1945 in Detroit, son of the late John and the late Anna (nee: Kapolka) Sauger.Gone far too soon at the golden (yet all-too-young) age of 70, Larry's passing is sure to impact a multitude of hearts and lives who were touched by his love and care. And of them all, the one who made the greatest impact upon his life was the young lady with whom he promised himself in marriage, his bride of 47 wonderful years, Michele. At the young age of 23, he joined Michele in the glorious union as husband & wife, which would eventually blossom into the joys of parenthood,…and their lives were never the same since. Together, they built upon the comforts of home, raised three beautiful children, and grew deeper in love with each passing day. Prior to his betrothal, and at the young age of 20, Larry answered the call to duty and was proud to don the uniform of the United States Army. So it is, with thanks & praise from a grateful nation, we pay homage to Larry for his service to our country during the Vietnam War. From December 1965 thru November 1967, he exuded the utmost in vigilance and preparedness, and remained willing to stand in harm's way with pride and patriotism as his shield and his fellow "band of brothers" as his strength. Though there are never enough words, we honor Larry's service and extend our posthumous gratitude for keeping America strong!And his patriotic service didn't end there. Now being a distinguished Vietnam War veteran, Larry's fraternal leanings led him to join one of the areas premiere veterans organizations, the esteemed Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 154 of Roseville, Michigan. Known for their eminent presence and representation in the community, Larry was proud to be associated with such a humble & honorable cadre of brothers. As for his strengths on the job, Larry was renowned for his skills and expertise as an Electrician in the construction industry. Along with his pride at work, he was also quite proud of his membership with the IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers), Local #58, a fraternal kinship he enjoyed for over 35 years. Though Larry enjoyed a number of different pastimes throughout his life, the one that trumped them all just had to be his immense passion for classic cars. Being the enthusiast that he was, it just seemed natural that his passion would transcend the partaking of auto shows and the perusing of magazines…to the wonderful world of ownership. And so it is that the day arrived when Larry's garage was graced by the iconic classics from 1966,…his Pontiac GTO and a Mustang convertible. Nothing more says "macho" than being behind the wheel of a head-turner from the 60's,…and Larry felt it to the core.Yet for as much as he was an enthusiast for iconic automobiles, Larry was equally passionate when it came to his charitable support of the Aplastic Anemia & MDS International Foundation. A member and advocate for many years, Larry felt strongly about the work they did and sought to be engaged in their efforts going forward. The work goes on, but Larry's unselfish support will be greatly missed.But of all the giving and support his heart and spirit emanated, the matchless love he held for his family reigned supreme. A loving husband, father and grandfather, Larry leaves a legacy of love to be embraced with each reflection shared. Family meant the world to him,…especially those little cherubs, his grandchildren. Known more affectionately as their "Papa,"…there were a storehouse of memories made that are sure to be a Godsend in the days ahead. He will missed immensely and loved eternally. Larry was the beloved husband of Michele. Loving father of Shannon (Robert Henry), John (Mary), and Mike (Deanna). Cherished Papa of Alex, Noah, Autumn, Tori, Emma, Mckenzie, Anna, and Nathan. Survived by brothers, Stephen, Regis, Marvin, Ronald, and Richard. Predeceased by parents, John & Anna Sauger, and sisters, Mary, Margaret and Martha. Visitation for Larry will be held Monday, February 15th from 3-9pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd) in Warren. He will lie in state on Tuesday from 9:30 am until time of the Funeral Mass at 10 am at St. Mary, Our Lady Queen of Families Catholic Church, St. Clement Campus in Center Line. Officiating the funeral liturgy will be Rev. Fr. Ron Victor. Interment, with full military honors, will take place at 11:30 am Wednesday, February 17th at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. Please share memories of Larry at his memory book above.