Obituary: Laurence A. “Lonz” Cavender
Laurence A. “Lonz” Cavender, age 84, lifelong resident of Stockbridge, Michigan, joined his beloved wife, Terry, in heaven on August 31, 2021. Lonz was born on October 3, 1936, the youngest of 5 sons of Robert and Mary Cavender. He met the love of his life, Terry Brumm, and they were married in 1954. Together they built their home and family in the town he loved, Stockbridge. Lonz retired from General Motors Fisher Body after 30 years of dedicated service. He was an avid story teller, engaging others in volumes of tales depicting adventures, antics and wisdom gained from living an open and welcoming life. Lonz and Terry shared a love of traveling across the United States, making friends along the way. He also enjoyed spending winters at his home in Bullhead City, Arizona. He embraced a playful nature, whether enjoying a round of golf or beating anyone willing at a game of checkers or chess. He was often considered a teacher of life as he would encourage and inspire others to question and think. He had a true appreciation for classic cars – rebuilding several of his own and attending countless car shows. After his retirement, he was able to spend his time honing his skills as a master of all trades, including but not limited to construction, electrical, mechanics, and carpentry. He will be remembered as being a man of God and having a witty personality until the very end. There are very few people in this world as kind, loving and gentle to all as this man. He will truly be missed by all.
Lonz is preceded in death by his parents, Robert James and Mary Louise (McCann) Cavender; wife of 53 years, Terrlyn Ann (Brumm) Cavender; and brothers: Joseph (Bette) Cavender, Harley (Katherine) Cavender, Louis (Joan) Cavender, and Timothy Cavender. He is survived by his children: Joseph (Mary Jo) Cavender, Laurence “Larry” (Calleen) Cavender, Betty J. Wright, Richard “Rick” Cavender, Christopher “Whitey” (Annie) Cavender, and Michael “Mike” (Denise) Cavender; grandchildren: Jason (Bonnie) Cavender, Janell (Ben) Kelcey, Angel (Keith) Clickner, Crystal (David) Rose, J.J. (Ashley Tyra) Cavender, Ethan (Amy) Wright, Phoebe (Jim Baker) Hamlin, Michael Cavender, Samantha (Tyler) Cavender, Allison (James) Cavender, John Cavender, Jacob (Danielle) Hoard, Calvin (Erin) Hoard, Genna (Lonnie) Walker, Nick (Keanna) Hoard, Britney (Cliff Kelly) Cavender, and Skyler Cavender; numerous great-grandchildren; expecting 2 great-great-grandchildren; sister-in law, Betty Cavender; Terry’s sister, Alice Ramilia; special friend, Marge Pollock; and special Arizona friend, Gene Taylor.
A memorial service honoring Lonz’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 4, 2021 at Millville United Methodist Church, located at 1932 N M-52 in Stockbridge, with Rev. Rhonda Osterman officiating. A time for sharing love, laughter, and memories will be offered at a luncheon following the service. A private family burial will be held at a later date at Fitchburg Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516 or online at support.woundedwarriorproject.
Hope Salyer
Managing Editor, Newsprint Designer and Reporter for theStockbridge Community News. Board Member of the Stockbridge Area Educational Foundation. Public Relations Director of the Ann Arbor Electrical JATC and Union 4 Life charity.