Lawrence Gerard Higgins, a loving husband, devoted father, and cherished friend, passed away on April 16th, 2024, after a courageous five-year battle with ALS.

Larry was born on June 21st, 1960, in Suffern, New York, to Mary Teresa Radigan and William Patrick Higgins. Larry always spoke highly of his childhood in Pearl River, New York. He would often tell stories of what life was like growing up in a large Irish-American family, demonstrating how important family was to him. During his early years, Larry faced the loss of his mother but found solace and love in his stepmother Claire Higgins, who became an integral part of his life. He adored her dearly, and their relationship embodied what it meant to be a family.

In his youth, Larry was an avid rugby player, demonstrating strength and camaraderie. He graduated from Pearl River High School in 1978 and journeyed across the country to Yellowstone National Park. It was there that he would find work as a roughneck on an oil rig, later transitioning to a career in construction, where his skilled hands and hard work shone brightly.

A true adventurer and lover of the outdoors, Larry embarked on countless trips throughout his life. From canoeing the frozen-over Delaware River in his youth to traversing the South Fork Flathead River and the Southeast arm of Yellowstone later in life, he found joy and tranquility in nature. Larry shared countless adventures with his friends, creating memories that will be cherished forever.

While in San Francisco, through a friend's introduction, Larry met the love of his life, Mary McNamara. Their first date took place during a pub crawl on St. Patrick’s Day in 1993. Enamored with each other, they married in 1994 and settled in San Rafael, where they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Embracing Mary's daughter, Alia, as his own, Larry became a devoted father figure. Together, they welcomed two more daughters, Amy and Shannon, into their loving family.

Larry was the epitome of a family man, finding joy and fulfillment in the love and happiness of his wife and daughters. Together, they shared a passion for the outdoors, often spending weekends camping and exploring nature. Larry and Mary cherished the time spent at the neighborhood swim meets, cheering on Alia and Amy as they competed. He had a talent for cooking, affectionately referring to himself as "Chef Lorenzo," and you could often find him working on the family home. Utilizing his skills in construction, Larry was proud to own his own company, Higgins Home Improvements, always acting in service of others; his family and community held a special place in his heart. Larry's love extended beyond his immediate family; he embraced Mary's mother, Deni Wetsel, as his own. The family would spend much of their time, holidays, and birthdays at the Wetsel Ranch, a hub of warmth and happiness for the family. Larry enriched his family's lives with his warmth and kindness.

A man of many talents and passions, Larry was not only a skilled carpenter, adventurer, and traveler but, above all, a dedicated father and husband. He exuded warmth, generosity, and genuine love for the ones he cared for. His sense of service to his friends and family was unmatched.

Lawrence Gerard Higgins is survived by his beloved wife Mary Higgins, his daughters Alia, Amy, and Shannon, his siblings Jerry, Kenny, Marian, Rita, Alice, John, Danny, their spouses, and his dear friends. His legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered with love and admiration.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/lawrence-higgins/obituary/

Copy