Michigan State Horticultural Society

Distinguished Service Award 2004

Prior to his death on January 17, 2004, Larry James Bradford, was a well-known fruit grower in Manistee County. Larry and his wife, Pat raised 6 children and have 17 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. He received both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Michigan State University.

Larry was dedicated to his family, community, and the fruit industry. He was a member of the First Congregational Church of Onekama, served on the church Board of Trustees, and was church moderator several times. He was also the youngest charter member of the Onekama Lion’s Club.

He was a lifelong outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish, especially in the company of family and friends. He also enjoyed golfing, gardening, woodworking, and cheering for his beloved Michigan State Spartans.

Larry worked for the Federal Fish and Wildlife Service and the Manistee County 4-H. He served as County Extension Director for Manistee County, for MSU, and later as a District Horticultural and Marketing Agent for the counties of Manistee, Mason, and Oceana. Larry served on numerous boards and commissions over the years, including the Onekama Consolidated Schools Board, Manistee County Fair Board, and the Board of Trustees of West Shore Community College.

Larry was a member of the Michigan State Horticultural Society, Michigan State Horticultural Trust Committee, Michigan Cherry Committee, Federal Cherry Industry Advisory Board, and was a past board member and chair of Graceland Fruit, Inc. He also helped organize the Manistee/Benzie Horticulture Association.

This award will be received by Pat, his wife, sons Paul (Maureen) and Edward (Jennifer), and daughter Kelly, for Larry’s many dedicated years of service to our industry and his continued encouragement of studies for students in the agriculture field. It is with great pleasure that the Michigan State Horticultural Society extend the 2004 Distinguished Service Award to his family.