Lawrence Lee "Larry" McGinnis Sr.

Lawrence "Larry" Lee McGinnis Sr., 85, formerly of New Buffalo, now of La Porte, Indiana, passed away surrounded by his many family members at the Northwest Health Center in La Porte, Indiana, on Friday, March 13, 2026. Arrangements have been entrusted to Sommerfeld Chapel, 15 North Barton St., New Buffalo, Michigan.

Larry was born on Feb. 17, 1941, in Michigan City, Indiana, to the late Joseph and Alice (Pieffer) McGinnis.

Larry served his country while in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves from 1962 through 1989 as a master gunnery sergeant. He married Margaret Ribbe on March 7, 1964.

Larry was a loving husband, father and friend. Larry initiated the first Toys for Tots program in Michiana and continued being involved for more than 25 years before passing it onto another veteran.

Larry was also a member of the American Legion Post 169 in New Buffalo, Michigan, for 39 years. Larry enjoyed roller skating – where he met his wife, and hosting family reunions.

He loved to hear people laugh from the many jokes he would share. Especially his "How do you sell a chicken?" joke.

Larry is survived by his wife of more than 62 years, Margaret "Marge" McGinnis; children, Lawrence "Lee" (Jacqueline) McGinnis Jr. of Interlochen, Michigan, and Trish (Mark) Basinger of La Porte, Indiana; grandchildren, Ashley (Josh) Scott, Samantha (Johnny) Davis, Jacob Basinger and Brett McGinnis; great-grandchildren, Lincoln Davis, Wynnie Davis, Rose Davis, Bruce Davis and Charlotte Scott; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by brothers, Joseph, Jack, Earl, Robert and Charles; and a sister, Edna.

Visitation with the family is on Friday, March 20, from 6 to 8 p.m. EST at Sommerfeld Chapel in New Buffalo. A Celebration of Life Service will be on Saturday, March 21, 11 a.m. EST, at the Lighthouse Village Church of God, 18459 U.S. 12, New Buffalo, Michigan, with Pastor Anthony Fields officiating. Burial will be at a later date at Ft. Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Lighthouse Village Church of God. Friends wishing to send condolences to the family may do so at www.sommerfeldchapel.com.