Larry L. Nau

Larry L. Nau, age 74, passed away of natural causes on July 12, 2026. He was born on May 13, 1952, in Jackson, Michigan to Leo and Bonnie Nau. He graduated from Northwest High School in 1970.

Larry is survived by his sons, Scott (Doris) Nau and Chuck Nau; his grandchildren, Rachel, Elijah, Cecilia, and Brandan (Bree); and his great-grandchildren, Ryleigh and Baylee; and his longtime friend, Judy. He is also survived by his siblings, Susan "Suzy" Gamache, Michael (Cheryl) Nau, and Doug (Sandy) Nau, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews: Keith (Tiffani) Wicklund, Katrina (Terry) Shedd, Michelle (Jim) Hanchett, Michael (Kara) Nau, Adrianna Nau, Dougie Nau, Justin (Rachael) Adams, Jason Adams, Becky (Eric) Hutchinson, Jake (Stephanie) Adams, and Abbie Adams. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Bonnie Nau; his grandson, Josh Jones; his grandparents, Charles O. and Frances Brautigam and Leonard and Olive Nau; his aunt, Dorothy Brautigam and uncles, Corey Brautigam and Henry Nau, who held a special place in his heart; and the mother of his children, Regina (Adams) Nau.

Larry worked at Goodyear before later working at Shaughnessy's Party Store and Party Port. In high school, Larry was a member of the band and the golf team. Larry was an avid fisherman who spent countless days on the water. He always considered Clark Lake and Higgins Lake his home lakes. Some of his favorite memories were made at the family cabin on Higgins Lake, where he enjoyed fishing and spending time with his parents, siblings, and sons. 

He was also an enthusiastic hunter, known for his impressive turkey call and his secret morel mushroom hunting spots, which were apparently worth risking a trespassing complaint. Larry learned to play hockey from his father and was a proud participant in the Neighborhood Hockey League.

Larry enjoyed many years playing and coaching in the local softball league for Ernie's Paint and Body, Co-Op Credit Union, Icorn, Pogo Travel, and Briggs Appliance. Known to many as "Chew" or "Sparky," Larry could always be counted on for his signature tip-toed sprint to first base. 

Larry was a devoted sports fan who loved hockey, especially the Detroit Red Wings, and faithfully cheered on the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions. He also enjoyed watching golf and was a loyal University of Michigan fan, and a Michigan State hockey fan.

His home reflected the things he loved most. Sports keepsakes, a revolving collection of ball caps, deer antlers, prized mounted fish, and mounted turkey fans could be found throughout the house. During morel mushroom season, mushrooms were always hanging to dry, and he even kept a few on display. While his home showcased his love of sports and the outdoors, his favorite decorations were the many photographs of his grandchildren.  When he wasn't watching sports or spending time outdoors, Larry could often be found enjoying The Andy Griffith Show and other classic television favorites.

A Celebration of Larry’s Life will be held on Saturday, July 25, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Suburban Lanes, 3801 Ann Arbor Road, Jackson, MI 49202, with a luncheon to follow until 1:30 p.m. Family and friends are invited to share their favorite stories and memories of Larry during the Celebration of Life.