Lawrence Carsten Mennitt
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Larry Mennitt, 92, passed away November 8 after a brief illness. He was born in Toledo OH and raised in Detroit MI and Miami FL, where he became fascinated with broadcast radio. Larry learned radio engineering at Miami Technical High School and, due to a shortage of workers during WWII, he was employed at Miami radio stations starting at age 16. Soon after getting married to Faye Stallings in his early 20s, he was hired by Voice of America, part of the State Department's Foreign Service. This was the start of a life-long career stationing him in many different countries, from Greece to Germany to Thailand and more, totaling 20 years of living overseas, plus various stateside assignments, and culminating in the position of Station Manager.
Larry remained interested in technology and innovation throughout his life. He was an amateur (Ham) radio operator for many years, using that skill to help with communications during disasters. He became an airplane pilot in his late teens, an interest that continued well into retirement, when he joined a flying club in Cape Coral. His club flew at sunset to look for boaters in distress. In retirement, he built his own house, learned woodworking, enjoyed boating and playing golf. He was active in a large southwest Florida computer club, as an officer and as webmaster. Entering his 90s, he mastered the smartphone and latest computer technology.
He was preceded in death by his wife Faye, his son John, and granddaughter Brenda. Survivors include grandson Daniel and wife Katie of WA, brother Thomas and wife Ruth of NC, nephew Stuart and children Benjamin and Elizabeth of VA, niece Lilly Talbert, her husband Charles, and their son Willem of VT.
A private service to spread ashes will be held at a later date. Larry often said "I've lived a long and wonderful life."
The family greatly appreciates the excellent care given to Larry by the staff at The Windsor and Hope Hospice.
Memories and condolences may be offered at www.nationalcremation.com.