Larry G. Gaitley

Larry G. Gaitley

Age 75, passed away on February 15, 2022 in Flat Rock, North Carolina. He was born on January 6, 1947 in Detroit, Michigan; son of Gordon and Mary (Rebar) Gaitley. He was united in marriage to Lorri Oleszkowicz on March 18, 1977; dedicated to their love for over 44 years. Larry was a 1965 graduate of Cathedral High School. After enlisting in the United States Army during Vietnam he came home and attended Wayne State University.

He lived in Northville for 18 years between 1988 until 2006. After moving to North Carolina and living there for 11 years, he and his wife decided to come back to Michigan. They loved both states, so they decided to split their time between Hendersonville, NC and Howell, MI.

Larry was an Auditor with Ford Motor Company for many years, he retired in 2002. He was a dedicated Reserve Police Officer, beginning his career in Lathrup Village in 1982. When Larry moved to Northville, he decided to apply to Northville Township Police Department. He flourished in his career as an officer, rising to a Lieutenant and retiring in 2006. One of his proud dad moments was when his son Bob joined the NTPD as a fulltime Police Officer.

Big Lar, as many knew him, enjoyed going out after work with his fellow officers and friends. He loved fantasy football and playing euchre. Larry was a steadfast Detroit Red Wings and U of M Wolverines fan. He was a great storyteller who made his listeners feel like they were experiencing the story. Larry’s 1965 GTO was meticulously cared for so he could compete in many drag races. Big Lar loved the upbeat rhythm of ABBA and liked going to musicals. Among his favorite musicals were Les Miserables, Mama Mia, and West Side Story. Larry was a devoted husband, an incredible father, a cherished grandfather, loving brother, and true friend.

He is survived by his wife Lorri; his daughters Cheryl Gaitley and Kristin (Joe) Willey; his daughter-in-law Teresa Gaitley; his brother Melvyn (Margie) Gaitley; and his grandchildren, Kyla and Connor. Larry was preceded in death by his parents and his son Bob Gaitley.

Visitation will be held Thursday, February 24, 2022 from 3pm until 8pm. The funeral service will be held Friday, February 25, 2022 at 11am at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. Pastor James McGuire with Christ Presbyterian Church in Novi will officiate the service.

Memorial contributions would be appreciated to the Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation , 30 Tower Lane, Suite 400, Avon, CT 06001.