Lawrence Richard "Larry" Baumann's Obituary
Lawrence Richard “Larry” Baumann
March 21, 1944 – April 29, 2025
Lawrence Richard Baumann, affectionately known as Larry, Bunky, and Mr. B, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2025, in Haverhill, MA, at the age of 81 surrounded by his loving children. Born on March 21, 1944, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Larry led a life marked by courage, compassion, and deep dedication to those he loved.
He was the beloved son of the late Lawrence C. Baumann and Viva D. Baumann (Williamson), and a devoted husband to his late wife, Carolyn. Together, Larry and Carolyn built a life rooted in unwavering love and mutual support, raising two children—Gretchen and JJ—with pride and joy. Of all his roles, being “Gramps” to Abigail and Max brought him the greatest happiness.
Larry is survived by his children, Gretchen (Don) Simpson and JJ (Jess) Baumann; his treasured grandchildren, Abigail and Max; and several dear friends and cousins, all of whom he loved as family.
A graduate of Warren Harding High School in Bridgeport, Larry proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps. His time in the military reflected the core of his character: bravery, discipline, honor, and a resolute spirit that defined his entire life.
Larry had two great passions: sports and family. He was an avid sports fan who would enthusiastically watch anything—from football to darts—and he actively participated in a range of athletics including baseball, basketball, football, track and field, and, in later years, Rock Steady Boxing for Parkinson’s. He coached for Park City Little League in Bridgeport, nurturing the love of the game in countless young players, and later shared that same passion with his grandson Max.
Remarkably, in his 40s, Larry joined his son JJ in studying Judo and went on to earn a first-degree black belt—a testament to his determination and spirit. He proudly passed on both judo and boxing techniques to his granddaughter Abigail, firmly believing every woman should know how to defend herself, change a tire, check her car’s oil, and own her own set of tools. It was common for him to have his daughter Gretchen right by his side as he taught her how to do things like fix a leaky sink or grill out the perfect steak.
He welcomed his children’s spouses with love and pride, enjoying deep conversations about sports and history with Don and sharing Jess’s Southern warmth and wit. He never missed a chance to tell others she was a fisheries biologist—a favorite story involved helping her unclog a fish tank pipe in grad school, only to have fish pour out the other end, much to their surprise and laughter.
Larry’s friendships were deep and enduring—he chose his friends with care and treasured them like family. Known for his dancing at weddings and his love of music, Larry’s tastes spanned big band, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll. From Bo Diddley and Fats Domino to ZZ Top and the Rolling Stones, his playlists were as vibrant as he was.
His life’s adventures took him across the United States and even to Belgium, where he developed a fondness for the Belgian beer Duvel. Yet, despite his adventurous spirit, he always delighted in the comfort of familiar favorites—especially fish and chips.
In the final chapter of his life, Larry faced Parkinson’s Disease with strength, dignity, and unshakable resilience. He remained deeply himself—sharp, humorous, and kind—even as the disease presented new challenges.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Movement Disorder Clinic at Brigham and Women’s Hospital/Massachusetts General Hospital for their compassionate care over the past nine years, to the teams at Marguerite’s House Assisted Living and The Residence at Salem Woods for their daily support, and to High Pointe Hospice House for their gentle care in his final days.
A celebration of Larry’s remarkable life will be held this summer, with details to be shared at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in his memory to organizations supporting veterans or Parkinson’s research.
Larry’s legacy of love, humor, strength, and loyalty will continue to inspire and guide all those privileged to have known him.
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