Larry Van Sanders

Larry Van Sanders, 63, a lifelong musician and songwriter, died on Oct. 7 at his Akron home, a song on his lips to the very end.

Born in Akron on Christmas Eve 1952, Larry provided vocals and lead guitar in the late 60's for the local band, The Lime, playing alongside brothers, Steve "Forrest" and Russell. Their first 45 recording, "Love-A-Go-Go" charted in the US and Canada. In the 70's Larry and Steve headed west, playing their music and singing their songs together in Colorado, California, and throughout the western U.S. Larry's life was music and family. He was a beloved friend and a dedicated father who made an impact on all who knew him.

Larry was preceded in death by his father, Charles; his bandmate brother, Russell; and his sister, Janelle. He is survived by his mother, Pat Sanders; partner, Marita Wertz; daughters, Stephanie (Jake) Paynter and Whitney Sanders; stepsons, Stephen and Christopher Wertz; grandchildren, Avery, Aiden, Alice and Joshua; brother, Steve; and nephews, Daniel and Josh Kouri.

Memorials may be made to MusiCares ( www.MusiCares.org ).

Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road. (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)