Larry J. Shadle

Larry Jay Shadle, 82, of St. Joseph passed away on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, at his home. A memorial service will be Saturday, May 16, at Stevensville United Methodist Church, 5506 Ridge Road, Stevensville, at 11 a.m. with visitation at 10 a.m.

Larry was born Sept. 17, 1943, in Waterloo, Iowa, to Ivan and Paula (Mersch) Shadle. He graduated from Waterloo East High School in 1961 and earned a bachelor's degree in education from Iowa State Teachers' College, and a master's degree from Western Michigan University. On Aug. 17, 1968, Larry married the love of his life, Joan Campion, in Royal Oak, Mich.

Mr. Shadle taught auto shop at St. Joseph High School for 30 years. He also taught driver's education to hundreds of St. Joseph students. Mr. Shadle went above and beyond to help his students with after-hours car advice, often receiving phone calls at home. He and his family enjoyed 40 summers at their cottage on the shore of Bear Lake, Mich.

Larry is survived by his wife of 57 years, Joan Shadle, of St. Joseph; daughters: Nancy (Terry) Batch of North Muskegon, Mich., and Bonnie (John) Craig of Stevensville; grandchildren: Adam, Laura (Jacob), Kyle, Hannah and Kathryn and a brother, James Shadle.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters and a brother.

Those wishing to leave condolences online may do so at www.starks -menchinger.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Stevensville United Methodist Church or Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel.