Larry F. Groth, Jr.

Larry Frederick Groth, Jr.December 15, 1963 – July 22, 2025

Larry Frederick Groth, Jr., age 61, of South Lyon, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2025, after a valiant and courageous battle with cancer. He fought until the end like a “bull”. He was surrounded by the love and presence of his family.

Born on December 15, 1963, in Wayne Michigan, Larry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, friend, and hero. He dedicated his life to service, spending 41 years in the fire service. He began his career as a firefighter with Plymouth Township and spent the last 36 years at Detroit Metro Airport Fire Department where he proudly retired as a Battalion Chief. His leadership, strength, and commitment to protecting others left a lasting impression.

Larry was the kind of man whose tough exterior was only outshined by the depth of his heart. Those who knew him well understood his quiet humor, his deep love for his family, and his unwavering loyalty. He found joy in the simplest things—spending time outdoors, camping, fishing for walleye on the Detroit River, Lake Erie, and Bolles Harbor, salmon trips on Lake Michigan and hunting trips to "The Hut" in Reed City, Michigan. He also enjoyed cooking and took great pride in keeping his kitchen spotless—if you dared to cook in his kitchen, you could count on him watching over your shoulder to make sure you were doing it right (and cleaning up as you went). His witty humor could catch you off guard in the best way—he had a one-liner for every moment and a knack for making people laugh without even trying.

He is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Kristi Groth (Bayless); his children, Alyssa (Jamie) Dolder, Ryan Groth (Dakota Reynolds), and Tyler Groth; and his cherished grandson, Brayden Baskin. He is also survived by his mother, Sandra Groth; his siblings, Timothy Groth and Stephanie (Louis) Carney; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Larry F. Groth, Sr.

Larry was the embodiment of courage, strength, and service. He loved deeply, lived purposefully, and leaves behind a legacy that will carry on through the lives he touched.

Friends and family may visit the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 South Main Street, Plymouth, on Friday, August 8, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.  A Memorial Service be held at Schrader-Howell on Saturday, August 9 at 10:30am with a luncheon to follow.

Everyone is welcome to join us for the luncheon at Bearded Lamb Brewing Company, 149 West Liberty Street, Plymouth, Michigan from 12pm-3pm.

In honor of Larry’s memory and lifelong commitment to service, the family welcomes donations to the Larry F. Groth Scholarship Fund in support of future firefighters:  Larry F. Groth Scholarship Fund

Once you put in the donation amount, on the second page you have the opportunity to make a Gift Designation – please designate the gift to the Larry F. Groth scholarship.