Lauren Richard Zahn, known affectionately by everyone as “Larry,” passed away peacefully in Holland, Michigan, on March 12, 2026 at the age of 86. Larry was born on September 12, 1939, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to the late George and Lorena Zahn. He went to Ann Arbor Pioneer High School  class of 1957 and spent eight decades building friendships and brokering deals in the local community. Larry carried the values of his upbringing and faith in God into every chapter of his life. Larry was fond on gathering with friends several days a week for breakfast and/or lunch, where for many years he and the guys would work to “solve the world’s problems”. After moving to West Michigan, he became a fixture of the Holland community, where he was as likely to be found discussing current events as he was enjoying a sunset over the lake.

Larry was a devoted husband and survived by Debi Zahn his wife of 43 years, with whom he built a life full of partnership and love. He is also survived by his children, Dana Zahn and Christopher Zahn (Kim), his grandchildren Jessica Zahn (Meredith), Christopher Zahn, Jr. (Laurel), and Connor Zahn, his brothers Douglas Zahn (Becky Vilisides) and William Zahn (Merry), and sister-in-law Meredith McGill sister-in-law Carla Garwood (Duane) as well as brother-in-law Craig Sloan (Shirley) and sister-in-law Kathy Rachwal (Scott) and his niece Paige Billinghurst (Trevor) and nephew Brett Garwood (Angelia) and many other nieces and nephews and his great niece and nephews as well as a host of extended family and dear friends who he was blessed to know. 

A man of steadfast integrity and a legendary gift for gab, Larry leaves behind a legacy of hard work, deep community roots, and a family who adored him. Since 1983, Larry was well known in the regional real estate industry. As a Real Estate Broker with extensive expertise, he didn't just see land, he saw potential. He was highly respected for his sharp mind and his ability to navigate the complexities of the trade, helping shape the communities he loved. If there was one thing Larry loved as much as a successful closing, it was a good long talk. He was a master of conversation, possessing an innate ability to connect with anyone, from a lifelong friend to a stranger in line for coffee. He believed that every person had a story worth hearing and every afternoon was better spent sharing a laugh and a few memories.

Larry found his greatest peace along the West Michigan shoreline. He continued to make great friendships in his later years in his new  neighborhood, where he served as a board member of the local HOA. He was a familiar face at his favorite local haunts, often found soaking in the atmosphere at the local Dutch bakery or enjoying the breeze along the Saugatuck River. Whether he was watching the boats come through the channel or simply taking in the vastness of Lake Michigan, the water was where he felt most at home.

A celebration of Larry’s life will be held at Christ Memorial Church located at 595 Graafschap Rd, Holland, MI 49423. Services will be held April 25, 2026 at 10am for visitation, then 11am memorial services, and 12pm luncheon. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to City On A Hill Ministries of Zeeland Michigan in Larry’s honor, reflecting his lifelong commitment to helping others. 

Larry’s legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to family will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.