John Laraway born Nov. 1, 1940, in Grand Rapids, Mich., died Jan. 2, 2021. Cancer.

Parents John Joseph (1976) and Bernice Kelly (1984) Laraway. Lived for many years in Iowa where he graduated from Burlington High School in 1958 and from Luther College in 1966. From June 1962 to June 1965, he served honorably in the U.S. Navy on board the USS PYRO (AE-24) an ammunition ship that rearmed Aircraft Carriers, Cruisers and Destroyers at sea and on the Staff of COMSERVPAC in HI. Upon leaving the Navy, John finished college and began an almost 50-year career in the book business selling to College and University Libraries in the U.S.

In 1968, on a blind date he met the "light of his life." He married that "light," Mariann on July 4, 1968. They have been together for over 52 years. Together they raised two of the greatest sons anyone could wish for: Mike (Kelly) Laraway. Grandchildren: Ryan and Taylor. JR (Anna) Laraway. Grandchildren: James and Gabriella.

John is survived by a sister: Judy (Chuck) Lief of Boulder, Colo.

John took up jogging at 40 to lose weight he had gained after quitting smoking. It became a long-time avocation. He ran for almost 30 years without missing a day. All outside in all type of weather. Favorite places were alongside water, whether it be lakes, rivers or oceans. Running alongside the Atlantic in Key West will always standout as a number one favorite.

He also enjoyed going to sons and grandkids various sporting events and other activities. Upon moving to south Florida in 1981, he became a big Miami Hurricane fan and still is to this day along with his sons. GO CANES.

Following cremation, burial was at the Department of Veterans Affairs, South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, Fla., for immediate family members.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/fort-lauderdale-fl/john-laraway-9983221