Larry Allen Kierzek
It is with deep love and sorrow that we share the passing of Larry Allen Kierzek, 76, of Rogers City July 2, 2026.
He was born March 28, 1950, to Phil and Alice (Strzelecki) Kierzek. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, who lived a life grounded in service, family and community.
Larry was married to his high school sweetheart Paulette (Orban) for 55 years, a partnership marked by enduring love, shared joy, and a lifetime of memories built together. He is also survived by their three children, Heather (Dave Gilbert), Scott (Jennifer) Kierzek and Megan (Greg Stewart); seven beloved grandchildren, Dolan and Halle Gilbert, Sydney, Eva and Marin Kierzek, and Robby and Isaac Taylor; two extended grandchildren, Abbey and Callum Stewart; and a brother, Richard (Dru) Kierzek.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Phil and Alice Kierzek; a sister Ruth Schaedig; in-laws, Florian, Lois and Larry Orban, Donnie Klingshirn, Lou Schaedig and Betty Jergens.
He began his working life at Dodge Trucking in Detroit before continuing his training at the Delta College Police Academy. He went on to serve the community with dedication in the Presque Isle County Sheriff’s Department for 34 years, retiring as a respected deputy sheriff sergeant. His career reflected a deep commitment to protecting and serving others with great integrity and care.
Larry and Paulette shared a lifelong love of polka dancing, attending numerous festivals and performing in parades over the years. Their energy and joy for music and community gatherings brought happiness to many and created lasting memories for those around them. Larry was also deeply involved in his family’s school and athletic activities, always supporting his children and grandchildren in everything they did. Whether it was a game, performance or special milestone, he was there with pride and encouragement. Supporting his family was one of his greatest joys and remained a priority throughout his life. He was a proud and active member of the Knights of Columbus, holding membership in Council No. 1705 and serving as a 4th degree Knight in Assembly No. 1711 as Color Corps commander. His faith, service and commitment to community were central throughout his life.
Larry will be remembered for his steady presence, his service to others, his love of family, the ways he showed up; consistently and wholeheartedly for the people and communities he cared about most.
Friends may visit the Beck Funeral Home Friday, July 10, from 4-8 p.m. where the Knights of Columbus will lead the rosary s
Inurnment will take place at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery at a later time.
Memorials may be offered to the Knights of Columbus 4th degree chalice fund or St. Ignatius Church Maintenance Fund.
In memory of Larry, find a friend or family member and dance a polka. Online condolences may be addressed through www.beckfuneralhome.org.
