Cynthia Jean Larson

Larson, Mrs

Cynthia Jean

Muskegon, Michigan

Cynthia Jean Larson, age 77, left us much too quickly on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 after a short and intense battle with pancreatic cancer. Her vibrant smile, love for family, and tight hugs are already missed so much.

Cindy was born in St. Joseph, Michigan on September 4, 1946 to Robert and Lorraine (VanDerAue) McMullen. She was an only child in a humble but loving home and her dog Maggie and many childhood friends kept her life full. During these years she cultivated a lifelong love for the city of Chicago and their beloved Cubs. After high school graduation, she earned a Bachelor's degree in Education from Michigan State University in 1968 and stayed loyal and true to her Spartans, cheering them on in every sport.

Cindy married her first husband, Ray Komray on June 13, 1970 and began teaching as an elementary school teacher for three years, they later had two girls, Erin and Kelly Komray. Being an affectionate and present mom came easily to Cindy and she filled their home with showtunes, dancing, and holiday festivities.

Following her divorce, Cindy took her scrappy determination and went back to school earning her Master's in Education. Her daughters remember her late night study sessions with papers strewn across the table as she balanced school and motherhood on her own. Somehow there was still a hot dinner ready every night and her beaming face in the stands of their extracurricular activities. Her girls marvel at the energy and dedication she showed as a single mom intent on creating a beautiful life for her family.

On July 25, 1998 Cindy married Bill Larson and they enjoyed 25 years of wonderful marriage, supporting each other, discovering new hobbies to enjoy together, and weaving their families together. They looked forward to their Florida vacations and Cindy was always happiest by the pool, in the sunshine, with a book in her hand.

Reading and literacy had Cindy's heart. She served 12 years on the Muskegon Public School Board of Education as a board member and president and she was a strong advocate for students in the area. She facilitated the growth of the Muskegon Project Literacy program and as a director successfully ran the program for years. She was a volunteer for hospice and was such a comfort to those going through a difficult time. Cindy was always more than willing to give of herself.

While she was an admirable and engaged community member, Cindy's true happy place was with her children and grandchildren. Nothing brought her more joy than gathering them together or visiting them in their own homes. She prioritized showing up for the little and big moments, often hours away or across the country, and never failed to share her love through positive affirmations and constant physical affection. She loved writing cards and saving cards because people and relationships always mattered more than things did to her. Her big laugh was contagious and she chose to enjoy the chaos that life brings. No one ever doubted they were loved by her.

Cindy is survived by her husband, William Larson; children, Erin (Christophe) Bakunas, Kelly (Mitchell) Olsen; step children, Sarah Larson, Eve (Jeff) Pattyn; grandchildren, ; and step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren . Her love was felt in abundance by all. She was preceded in death by her parents, and step son, William Dean Larson in December of 2020.

SERVICE

A memorial Service will be held at St. John's Episcopal Church in Grand Haven, Michigan on Friday, January 26th at 12p.m. Visitation at 11am. Following the memorial service there will be a reception held at the Knights of Columbus, 2915 Fairfield St. Muskegon, MI 49441 from 3-6PM. MEMORIAL: in lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Read Muskegon. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to leave a memory or sign the online guestbook.