(STURGIS) – A former Sturgis Public Schools Superintendent has passed away.

Larry McConnell passed away December 21 at the age of 92.

According to a post by Hackman Family Funeral Home, McConnell was born in Beal City and attended Sacred Heart Academy. He then attended Central Michigan University, achieving both his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees and later a PhD from Michigan State University.

After serving as a Military Intelligence Specialist in the United States Army and serving in Korea, Larry returned to Michigan where he married and started a family.

Larry dedicated his career to educating youth, progressing from chemistry teacher to superintendent of schools and at one time was the youngest superintendent in the state of Michigan. He spent the last 18 years of his career serving as Superintendent of schools in Sturgis.

As part of his walk in faith, Larry served on the Board of Directors of Thurston Woods Village. He was also President, board member and member of Sturgis Rotary Club, was a hospice volunteer, and built homes through Habitat for Humanity. He was a pillar of the community and a friend to all.

In honoring his wishes cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends from 4 until 7 PM on Thursday, January 9th at the Hackman Chapel of Hackman Family Funeral Homes, 114 South Nottawa St. in Sturgis where the Most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary will be prayed together at 7 PM. Thursday. The Funeral Mass celebrating the life of Larry McConnell will begin at 11 AM Friday, January 10th at Holy Angels Catholic Church in Sturgis.