Lawrence M Stearns

" Lawrence M. Stearns, 82, of Homer Drive, died August 19 at his home with his children by his side. Born in Conway, May 4, 1922, he was the son of the late Carl L. and Marjorie (Leach) Stearns. Larry lived in Brimfield before moving to Monson 55 years ago. He was an automotive mechanic for 22 years at the former Zabek Motors in Palmer before retiring in 1987. Larry served with the Army during WWII. His unit was the second wave to land on the beaches of Normandy and he was the recipient of a Purple Heart. He received the Knight of the Legion of Honor Award at a special ceremony in Normandy France in June 2004, commemorating the 60th anniversary of D -Day. He also belonged to the American Society of the French Legion of Honor. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and belonged to the Swift River Sportsmen’s Club, the NRA, and was a life member of the North American Hunting Assoc. He was predeceased by his wife of 40 years, Mary Elizabeth (Fellion) Stearns in 1987. He will be deeply missed by his son Lawrence and his wife Marilyn of Longmeadow, along with his two daughters Lori Lee an her husband Paul Enscoe of Three Rivers, and Beverly Gore of Wilbraham. He also leaves 3 brothers Deane of Palmer, Willis of Brimfield, and James of W. Brimfield, along with 13 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Besides his wife, he was predeceased by three brothers Russell, Bruce and Robert. A funeral service will be Monday, August 23 at 12:00 p.m. at the Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home, 1475 N. Main St, followed by burial WITH MILITARY HONORS in St. Michael’s Cemetery. Calling hours will precede the service from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Donations may be made in his memory to Swift River Sportsmen’s Club, Moore Road, Belchertown 01007, or the American Cancer Society, Western MA Division, 31 Capital Drive West Springfield, MA 01089."