Lawrence J. Bunting

Lawrence "Larry" J. Bunting, age 77, of Royal Oak, formerly of Troy, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2025, at Corewell Hospital in Royal Oak. Larry was born on August 3, 1947, in Ottawa Lake, Michigan, the oldest of three children to the late Harold and Clara (McGee) Bunting. Growing up on the family farm, he enjoyed participating in 4-H and FFA, proudly showing animals at the Monroe County Fair, where one notable year he successfully raised and showed a Grand Champion pig. He began his education in a one-room schoolhouse and graduated in 1965 from Whiteford Agricultural High School, where he was a proud member of the 1964 championship football team. Larry served honorably in the U.S. Navy from 1966 to 1970, completing two full tours in Vietnam. Despite his naval service, family and friends humorously noted he never once stepped foot on a ship. Following his military service, Larry attended Michigan State University, earning a bachelor's degree in philosophy in 1973. He continued his education at Wayne State Law School, receiving his Juris Doctor in 1976. Larry had a distinguished and fulfilling legal career, serving as Assistant U.S. Attorney, Assistant Oakland County Prosecutor, Chief Assistant Oakland County Prosecutor, and later managing a successful solo private practice. Known for his versatility, Larry humorously described his practice as handling "everything but maritime law." He also was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and the American Legion. On November 5, 1977, Larry married the love of his life, Nancy Dombrowski, in East Detroit, beginning a lifetime partnership defined by devotion to family and community. Despite his many professional accomplishments, Larry remained humble and rarely spoke of his achievements. His family always came first; he coached his daughter in sports, cared for his aging parents, and volunteered actively at his church. Larry was a beloved father, famous within his family for his quick sayings, like “The land of the big PX is now officially over!” He regularly reached out with thoughtful notes and gardening tips, leaving a lasting impression on his daughters. A dedicated "Papa," Larry, alongside Nancy, enthusiastically supported his grandchildren's activities. He cherished watching them play sports, express their creativity, and spending joyful moments together. Known for his loud, infectious laugh, Larry created countless memorable moments with family and friends. He developed friendships that meant the world to him in all stages of his life, from his boyhood and young adult years, his time in the Navy, and during his legal career. He especially treasured his time at St. Vincent Ferrer, volunteering at church festivals and socializing with the SVF community. He also enjoyed decades of friendship and camaraderie with "the Snowmen," a group of lifelong friends. Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy; daughters Katie (Mark) Trexler of Royal Oak, Kristen (Andy) Lintner of Pleasant Ridge, and Laura (Bryan) Presti of Pleasant Ridge; sister Diane (Tom) Wollam of Ottawa Lake; and seven cherished grandchildren—Claire, Brynn, and Juliette Trexler; Evelyn and Danny Lintner; Charlotte and Josephine Presti. He was preceded in death by his brother, Charlie Bunting. Larry leaves behind a legacy filled with love, humility, laughter, and genuine kindness, forever cherished by all who knew him. A visitation for Lawrence will be held on Friday, March 14, 2025 from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm with a scripture service and sharing of memories at 6:30 pm at Wm. Sullivan and Son Funeral Directors, 705 W. Eleven Mile Rd. (4 blks. E. of Woodward), Royal Oak, 48067. Lawrence will lie in state on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 9:30 am until the time of the funeral Mass at 10:00 am at St. Mary Catholic Church, 730 S Lafayette Ave., Royal Oak, 48067. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Capuchins or Wounded Warrior Project. Please share a memory at www.SullivanFuneralDirectors.com

Lawrence J. Bunting

August 3, 1947 - March 9, 2025