Lawrence Lees “Larry” Wolcott, born August 17, 1936, passed away peacefully at the University of Michigan Hospital at the age of 89, leaving behind a life defined by quiet wisdom, artistry, and a steady devotion to friends and family.
Raised in Upper Nyack, New York, Larry showed an early aptitude for craftsmanship, building his own cruiser while still in high school. A proud graduate of the University of Michigan, he went on to spend 30 years as a science teacher at Adams Junior High in the Wayne-Westland School District. He loved children and found deep purpose in teaching them about the natural world in creative and thoughtful ways.
Lawrence shared 64 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Julie. He expressed his care through loving acts of devotion, cooking for them both each night and, up to the very end, making sure her garden was filled with zinnias each summer.
He is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Harrelson, and son-in-law, Dean Harrelson; his grandchildren, Evan Banyash and Marc Banyash; and his brother, Peter Wolcott.
Larry was a creative lifelong learner who could fix nearly anything. A skilled carpenter and metalworker, he also explored photography, glass blowing, fossil hunting, astronomy, and meteorology, and loved a good giant bubble making session or DIY firework display. He created exquisite furniture pieces for his daughter that she treasures and leaves behind many handmade creations, including cutting boards, tables, boxes, and metal artwork of animals, insects, and flowers, now cherished in the homes of loved ones across the country.
Larry will be remembered for his gentle nature, capable hands, and the quiet ways he made life better for others.
A celebration of life will be held in the spring, with details available through Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, Michigan.
