Obituary

Remembering Larry Malfroid

Larry Malfroid, age 88, of Jenison, entered into eternal rest on Friday, August 7, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Joan Malfroid; son, Dan Malfroid; stepson, Bruce VanDyke; parents, Elmer and Lilly Malfroid; siblings, Jerry Malfroid, Phyliss Jacobsen, Marilyn Niewick. He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Sheri (Mike) Patterson, Rebecca (Robert) Kenney, Christofer Malfroid, Amy (Dave) Wirtz; stepchildren, Margo Solomon, Beth (Chuck) VanDyke, Michelle Bouman, Brian VanDyke; along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren; brothers, Kenneth Malfroid, John Malfroid; and his nieces and nephews. 

Classical guitar soloist, Larry Malfroid, a past performing member of the St. Cecilia Music Society, received his early training at Grand Rapids Junior College and studied music theory at Reformed Bible College. He took an independent study of music history at Aquinas College. Additional studies included work in solfeggio with A. Biferno of the Grand Rapids Symphony and a master class with world renowned guitar virtuoso Christopher Parkening (former student of the late Andres Segovia) in which he was chosen to play in recital. 

As a soloist, Larry was one of the 150 West Michigan artists chosen to perform in the first state-wide arts festival at the Renaissance Center in Detroit, receiving a special award from the governor. Other performances have included concerts with the St. Clair Shores Symphony, and on numerous television and radio programs.

A music professor as well, Mr. Malfroid initiated guitar programs at several West Michigan area colleges and universities. He retired from Hope College after 41 years as an Associate Professor of Music, teaching both classes and private students as well as performing regularly on faculty recitals.

The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the staff of Grand Village Assisted Living in Grandville and to Faith Hospice for the tender, loving care provided to Larry. 

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1481 Baldwin St., Jenison, with a luncheon to follow. Relatives and friends may visit with the family on Thursday from 10-11 a.m. at the church prior to the service. The burial will take place at Georgetown Township Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hope College Music Department or Faith Hospice

Service Information

Visitation and Funeral Details

Memorial Visitation

Thursday, August 13 · 10:00am - 11:00am

Location

Holy Cross Lutheran Church

1481 Baldwin St.
Jenison, MI 49428

Memorial Service

Thursday, August 13 · 11:00am

Location

Holy Cross Lutheran Church

1481 Baldwin St.
Jenison, MI 49428

Guestbook

Tribute Messages

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Larry was a caring and careful guitar teacher who helped in guiding my life beginning around 1968. I will miss his basic humanity and sense of humor, along with the beautiful music he brought into the world. My sincere condolences to the family.

— Ray Davies

For two years, 1971 - 1973, Larry was my guitar teacher at GRJC music deptment. He guided me, encouraged me, challenged me. I owe a debt a gratitude to him.

— Charles Gibson

We will miss Larry, after many years of friendship. He even played his guitar for one of our anniversary celebrations. He was a kind and thoughtful man. He and Joan were the best. Carole and Joe

— Carole and Joe Weber

I had the privilege to know Larry Malfroid as his music faculty colleague at Hope College. Over the years we shared many performances and wonderful conversations about music and Christian faith. I also met his wife Joan at many concerts she attended at Hope. What a real pleasure to have had both of them in our community. May the Lord keep them in His eternal love.

— Mihai Craioveanu

Prayers for the family during your loss. We have great memories of camping by Larry and Joan at Lincoln Pines. May God comfort you for your loss.

— Joel & Karen Hanenburg

It was my honor to take care for Larry & Joan they will be remembered by so many at grandville. I thought of Larry as one of my grandparents he was an amazing person inside and out and I will miss him dearly!! The family is in my thought and prayer!

— Ashley Shaver

I was saddened to receive word that Larry Malfroid had passed away. I have many wonderful music memories of Larry while I was on the music faculty at Hope College. Of special note are those shared during a 1990s Hope College Symphonette Spring tour to New York. Larry was the featured soloist and was a joy to work with. Besides being an exquisite guitarist, Larry was a kind and gentle man who deeply cared for his students. My prayers are with his family and friends.

— Russell Floyd

Thoughts and prayers are with all of the family during this time, may God’s peace cover you all as you mourn your loss! Sheri & Mike, so sorry for the loss of your dad! Big Hugs! Love, Jon & Melanie

— Melanie Buist-Stover

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