Larry Bartrand

Larry Andrew Bartrand, 88, of Grandville, Michigan, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Monday, February 9, 2026. Born on March 5, 1937, in Muskegon, Michigan, Larry lived a full and faithful life marked by devotion to his family, service to his country and church, and a deep love for God. Larry moved from Muskegon to Tustin, Michigan, and graduated with Burdell Township Rural Agricultural High School class of 1955.  Larry proudly served in the United States Air Force as a telecommunications specialist. He met and fell in love with Barbara Johnson from LeRoy and they celebrated their 65^th wedding anniversary June 18, 2025. 

A man of steadfast faith, Larry trusted Jesus as his Savior and dedicated himself to ministry through Grace Bible Church where he served faithfully in various roles, including Missions Treasurer. In 1981, he traveled to Guam with Trans World Radio where he helped construct a radio tower to spread the gospel message – an experience reflecting both his technical skills and missionary heart.

For more than a decade, Larry and his beloved wife Barbara owned and operated The Trend Shop in Hudsonville. Their partnership in business reflected their shared dedication and teamwork—a bond that carried through every aspect of their lives together.

Larry was a loving husband to Barbara; a devoted father to Craig (Jayne) Bartrand, Todd (Rhonda) Bartrand, and Geri (Jon) Nagelkirk; a proud grandfather to Stacy (Aaron) Northouse, Amanda Bartrand, Nicki Bartrand, Kelli (Chad) Wilson, Laura (Jason) Friend, and David Nagelkirk; and a cherished great-grandfather to Alexis, Kylah, Jaxon, Tyler, Elijah, Kinsley, and Asher. He is also survived by his siblings, Col. Louis (Moira) Bartrand, Bernard (Faye) Bartrand, Jacquelyn J. Jacobs; brothers-in-law, Phil Johnson, Mike (Sally) Johnson, Bill (Mary) Johnson; sisters-in-law, Anne Johnson, Linda (Larry) Holmes; many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Ida (Anderson) Bartrand; parents-in-law, Arvid and June Johnson; brothers-in-law, Dan Johnson and James Johnson; and sister-in-law, Ruth Ann Johnson.

Larry found joy in many pursuits throughout his life. He treasured time with family, Monday morning coffee with his church buddies—moments filled with fellowship and laughter. Family vacations on Hilton Head Island were highlights that created lasting memories across generations. He also enjoyed motorcycle trips that fed his sense of adventure and boating excursions on Lake Michigan. One of his prized possessions was his 1953 Mercury—a symbol of both nostalgia and pride.

A memorial service honoring Larry’s life will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Bible Church 3715 Wilson Avenue SW, Grandville, with Rev. Todd Kinde officiating. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Thursday, February 19, from 4-7 p.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home  4145 Chicago Dr. SW., Grandville. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Grace Bible Church Missionary Christmas Fund—an extension of Larry’s enduring commitment to mission work. 

The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed via this link.