Larry E. Dailing, an 87-year-old veteran and retired Ford Motor Co. employee from the Downriver area, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. His life reflected a commitment to military fellowship and the automotive industry, leaving a void in the veterans’ community of Flat Rock and Trenton, Michigan.
For the Downriver community, Dailing represented those who transitioned from service in the U.S. Navy into employment with the American automotive industry, maintaining a sense of service after their discharge.
A Legacy of Naval Service and Industrial Loyalty
According to reports from the Martenson Family of Funeral Homes, Dailing’s commitment to the United States began in 1958. He served in the U.S. Navy until 1962, spending his years in uniform aboard the USS Lester and the USS Caperton.
When he returned to civilian life, Dailing entered the workforce that defined the Downriver region: the automotive sector. He spent over 30 years at Ford Motor Co. before his retirement.
Civic Leadership in the Downriver Veterans Community
For Larry Dailing, the military was a lifelong vocation. He didn’t just maintain memberships; he led. As reported by the Martenson Family of Funeral Homes, Dailing served as a past commander of the VFW Post #9363 in Flat Rock.
His influence extended across multiple organizations, including:
- Lifetime membership in the VFW Post #9363.
- Lifetime membership in the American Legion.
- Long-term service as a member of the Downriver Veterans Honor Guard.
By spending his later years in this capacity, Dailing ensured that the camaraderie of his Navy service lived on in veterans’ organizations.
Dailing Leaves Behind a Sprawling Family Network
Beyond the medals and the pension, Dailing was known for a simpler, more personal passion: the harmonica. In his final years, he found residence and care at the Hampton Manor of Woodhaven.
The weight of his passing is felt by a sprawling family network. He was preceded in death by his wife, Audrey; his parents, Milton and Margaret Dailing; his sons, Patrick and James (Amber) Dailing; his brother, Richard Dailing; and daughter-in-law Lisa Dubois.
He leaves behind a significant legacy through his son, Wayne (Lisa); stepchildren Marty (Kris Coggin) Dubois, Matt (Sue) Dubois, Michelle (Keith) Rhinehart, Renee (Clay) Mendenhall, and Monica (Bruce) Caldwell; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and his nephew, Bill Dailing.
Arrangements for Military Honors
The community will gather to honor Dailing’s contributions on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Visitation is scheduled from 1:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at The Trenton Chapel – Martenson Family Of Funeral Homes, located at 3200 West Rd, Trenton, MI 48183.
In a fitting tribute to a man who spent his life in service to others, military honors will follow the visitation at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. The Martenson family, which has operated in the Detroit and Downriver areas since 1934, will oversee the services.
