Larry Michael Funk November 12, 1947 - March 9, 2018

“Life is what you make it.”

Larry Michael Funk, devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, friend and colleague passed away peacefully on March 9, 2018 surrounded by immediate family after succumbing to his battle with cancer.
Known by many as “Mr. Fix It,” Larry was always up to offer a lending hand to neighbors, friends or family. He could swap a transmission in a weekend, build a trailer for his local church, fix a broken lawnmower, run electrical, or rebuild a ’65 mustang for his daughter’s first car. No matter the project big or small, Larry could “MacGyver” anything. He was an avid reader, loved spending time with his grandchildren Emilee and Lorenzo (especially sharing ice cream or building snap circuits). You’d always see Larry in his vibrant Hawaiian shirts, indicative of the beautiful life he lived. Over the years, you could find him on a pit crew at Evergreen Speedway, driving the Sunday School bus, singing in the church choir, hanging with Cadman buddies, cheering on his daughters and grandchildren at various activities, or in his giant garage fixing, building or tinkering on something. He’d happily and patiently share his knowledge to those much less “fix-it” inclined.
Larry was a devout Christian who spent 65 years in Snohomish County prior to his retirement in 2012. He’s preceded by his parents, Alfred Charles Funk and Carol Fern (Goshorn) Funk. As a young boy, Larry grew up in Sultan and Snohomish. Both Larry and his father were loggers. He graduated from Snohomish High School in 1966. After school, he served honorably four years in the US Marine Corps stationed at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, CA. He met his wife of 45 years, Annie Funk in 1972, shortly after he was discharged. They made their home together and raised their family in Monroe, WA. Larry was a kind, hard-working man providing for his family as long-haul truck driver, cement truck driver, mechanic, batch plant operator but so much more. If there was a job that needed to get done, Larry was there to help see it through.
Larry and Annie had two girls, Carol Ann Simicich and Marti Kay Funk, and extended family in exchange students and church community. After Larry retired in 2012, he and Annie headed to Orange County, CA where he spent his final years in Laguna Woods Village Retirement Community with his beloved wife, near his youngest daughter and her family.
Larry was a silent inspiration and role-model to many. He led by example with a vigorous work ethic and faith second to none. His priorities were his family, church and his community. Larry’s deep and lasting faith in God set a powerful foundation. His granddaughter, Emilee said it best, “My grandpa was by far the best man I have ever met and I would not know Jesus if it were not for the guidance he gave me. I owe everything I am to this man and my life will not be the same without him. I know now that he is freed from the chains that held him here, and that he had finally reached God’s kingdom, and for that I am forever grateful.”
Larry is honored by his wife, Annie Funk; daughters Carol Ann Simicich (plus son-in-law Jason Simicich and granddaughter Emilee Simicich) and Marti Kay Funk (plus son-in-law Tony Tomassini and grandson Lorenzo Revello Tomassini Funk); his exchange son Carlos Encalada; along with three sisters: Doreen “Dee” Davis, Merrilyn Sawetch, Valerie Peterson; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Larry’s final wishes were to help ensure that his wife would be ok. In lieu of flowers, we’ve set up Annie’s L.O.V.E. Fund, a GoFundMe initiative, which will go to purchase visual aids that’ll support Annie in maintaining her independence and making day-to-day tasks easier: https://www.gofundme.com/annielovefund
Larry’s loved ones are grateful for the many cherished memories, friendship and guidance. They’re comforted that he’s out of pain and knowing that they have a new angel looking down from Heaven above.
Special thanks to Dr. Lam, Dr. Ritter, and the staff at New Haven Hospice for the exceptional care given to Larry and his family.
Interment:
Miramar National Cemetery,
San Diego, CA
Celebration of Life for Larry:
Sunday, June 10, 2018
@ 1 pm
Monroe Swiss Hall
18500 Tualco Rd,
Monroe, WA 98272