Richard Lawrence “Dick” Larson, 86, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, went to be with the Lord on Monday, April 27, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Dick was born on July 5, 1939, in Plainwell, Michigan, to Marion and Dorothy Larson. He graduated from Otsego High School in 1957 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in education from Albion College, followed by a master’s degree in chemistry from Western Michigan University. He began his career teaching and coaching at Detroit Country Day School and Earlham College.

In the midst of a successful coaching career, Dick surrendered his life fully to Jesus and entered full‑time ministry. Over the next 50 years, he served faithfully in a variety of roles, including Dean of Students at Grand Rapids School of Bible and Music, pastor of youth ministries in Dayton, Ohio, and headmaster of a Christian school in West Palm Beach, Florida. He concluded his church ministry as senior pastor of Alamo Congregational Church in Alamo, Michigan. Dick then served as Chaplain of the Kalamazoo County Jail with Forgotten Man Ministries for 15 years before retiring.

In 1960, Dick married the love of his life, Mary Kay Sponable. Together they shared a deeply devoted, Christ‑centered marriage and served side by side in ministry, sharing the gospel and leading many to faith.

Dick had a true servant’s heart, generously giving his time, resources, and possessions to anyone in need. He was an avid outdoorsman who especially loved time spent in a tree stand or on the water. He passed on his love of the outdoors to his children and grandchildren. One of his favorite places throughout his life was Gun Lake, where he created countless memories with family. His love for his family was evident in the way he invested in their lives and faithfully covered them in prayer.

Dick is survived by Mary Kay and their four children: Wendi (Roger) Walcott, Mark (Leigh) Larson, Michael (Heather) Larson, and Matthew (Kristine) Larson. He is also survived by his grandchildren—Christopher (Morgan) Isch, Andrew (Sara) Larson, Nathan (Sarah) Larson, Jonathan (Jessica) Isch, Hannah (Kenny) Ledbetter, Megan (Aaron) Knupp, Katheryn (Chase) Peyton, Devon (Deven) McCarn, and Ava Larson—and twelve great‑grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Lynn Larson; and his parents‑in‑law, Robert and Avis Sponable.

A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church of Otsego, Michigan, on Saturday, May 9, at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Andrew Larson officiating. Those wishing to honor Dick may make a donation in his memory to the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission (www.kzoogospel.org) in lieu of flowers.

While visiting Dick’s webpage at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory with the family.

The family is being assisted by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 120 S. Woodhams St. Plainwell, MI 49080 (269-685-5881).