Larry Shadle Obituary

Larry Jay Shadle, 82, of St. Joseph, Michigan, passed away on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at his home. A memorial service will be held on May 16 at Stevensville, MI Methodist Church at 11am, with visitation at 10am.

Larry was born September 17, 1943, in Waterloo, Iowa, to Ivan, Sr. and Paula (Mersch) Shadle. He graduated from Waterloo East High School in 1961 and earned a bachelor's degree in education from Iowa State Teachers' College (now UNI) in Cedar Falls, Iowa and a master's degree from Western Michigan University. On August 17, 1968, Larry married the love of his life, Joan Campion, in Royal Oak, MI.

Mr. Shadle taught auto shop at St. Joseph High School for 30 years. He also taught Driver's Ed. to hundreds of St. Joseph students. Mr. Shadle went above and beyond to help his students with after-hours car advice, often receiving phone calls at home. He and his family enjoyed many summers at their beloved cabin on the shore of Bear Lake, MI.

Larry is survived by his wife of 57 years, Joan Shadle, of St. Joseph; daughters, Nancy (Terry) Batch of North Muskegon, MI and Bonnie (John) Craig of Stevensville; grandchildren, Adam, Laura (Jacob), Kyle, Hannah, and Kathryn; sister-in-law, Vanita Shadle and brother, James Shadle.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Kathryn (Alfred) Fowler; brother, Ivan Shadle, Jr. and sister, Marjorie (Owen) Erstad.

Those wishing to leave condolences online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Stevensville United Methodist Church or MI Assn. of Retired School Personnel.