Larry J. Melanson

Larry J. Melanson, 61, died on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at his home in North Berwick. He was born on December 24, 1956, to Laurie and Cecile (Valley) Melanson in Sanford,where he grew up and attended local schools, graduating from Sanford High School in 1975.In June of 1980, he married Robbyn Smith and together they had a son, Ryan.Larry was the proprietor of his own automotive shop, Larry's Garage. He began his lifelong career as a mechanic by working for Murray's Garage in high school, and then taking over the business for himself. Though he was considered a "home body", Larry had several hobbies such as fishing, camping, snowmobiling and anything he could do with his son that he loved. One of his favorite places was the pond on his property where he made water gardens, and sat on his swing. He also enjoyed restoring old cars, and could fix anything. He was a helpful man and enjoyed mentoring and teaching young people. If you had asked him, he would have said he didn't like cats, but he rescued and built a home for many feral cats in the neighborhood and had a soft spot for his own cats at home.Above all, Larry was a family man. His wife, son, and daughter in law were the most important to him. He also treasured his friends and appreciated that they were part of his life. Larry was a laid back, person who was known not to "sweat the small stuff." He was greatly loved and will be dearly missed.Larry was predeceased by a brother in law, Wayne Smith.Survivors include his parents, his wife of 37 years, Robbyn Melanson, a son, Ryan Melanson and his wife Elisabeth, of Sanford, five sisters, Janice Hussey and her husband David, of Sanford, Arlene Leclair and her husband Larry, of Sanford, Melinda Beattie, and her husband Kevin , of Springvale, Sandy Pollack and her husband Mike of Sanford, and Michelle Osmer, of Sanford, his parents in law, Stephen and Diana Smith,brothers in law, Kris Smith, Stephen Smith and his wife Michelle and Allen Smith, sisters in law Karrin Berry and Kimberly Asbas and her husband Michael, and many nieces nephews, great nieces and nephews and cousins.A celebration of life will take place at a later date.Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Sanford Regional Technical Center Automotive Program, at 52 Sanford High Blvd., or, The Animal Welfare Society P.O. Box 4, West Kennebunk, ME 04090.Arrangements are under the direction of Black Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, Sanford-Springvale. To leave a message of condolence, click tab at left.