Laren Lloyd Armstrong

Born on January 27, 1941, Laren spent his childhood exploring his parents’ homestead in Tower, Michigan, where he developed a love for hunting, fishing, and savoring the joys of life. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving actively in Vietnam. Although his military service lasted just four years, he carried the pride of being a United States Marine throughout his life.

Laren worked as a skilled tradesman at General Motors in Flint, Michigan. After retirement, he and his wife, Sharon, built a home on the Saginaw Bay in Standish, Michigan. There, they enjoyed countless afternoons perch fishing with neighbors and relished fresh catches in their backyard, filled with laughter and good company. While Laren loved fishing, his true passion lay in white-tailed deer hunting in Northern Michigan. He delighted in sharing stories around a campfire from his hunting trips, recounting outdoor adventures throughout Michigan, whether it was snowmobile racing, hunting, camping, fishing, or searching for morel mushrooms.

Tired of shoveling snow, Laren and Sharon relocated to Englewood, Florida, to soak up more sunshine, where they were surrounded by friends from Michigan. Laren devoted significant time to serving as a member of American Legion Post 113 in Englewood alongside many of his Michigan friends.

He took great pride in his interment at Sarasota National Cemetery. Laren is survived by his two daughters, Dawn and Dana, along with their children and grandchildren, as well as stepchildren Todd, Lisa, Darrin, and Jim. Known as “Papa” to his grandchildren and “Great Papa” to his great grandchildren, Laren always wore a smile that brightened the room. He had a special bond with his pets and is likely enjoying the company of many of them again. His joyful spirit will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. He represented a generation that is becoming increasingly rare.