Larry Motot Obituary

Larry Motot

Larry D. Motot, 70, passed away Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 8:56 p.m. Larry was born May 27, 1955, in Fostoria, to John and Janet (Gaskalla) Motot.

How can you sum up an entire life in just a few paragraphs? Larry would probably say you can't, but those who knew him knew exactly who he was. He absolutely loved his kids, never doubting for a second how important family was. One of his greatest joys was taking his grandchildren out for ice cream, letting them choose their own treats and prizes, and watching their excitement.

Larry's favorite place in the world was Vanderbilt, Michigan, where his family spent decades camping up north. Fishing, camping, cruising through the woods, and watching wildlife created some of his most treasured memories. He could be stubborn at times, but he was one of the most honest men you could meet. Larry lived by a simple truth: you're only worth as much as your word.

Larry married Dawn Smith in 1984; they later divorced.

He is survived by his siblings, Laurie Motot of Vanderbilt, Michigan, and Linda Bisbee of Onaway, Michigan; his children, stepson, Kevin Smith of North Baltimore, Tammy (Jesse) Wise, of Bairdstown, Christina Morales of Bloomdale, and Christian (Alma) Motot of Mexico; his grandchildren, Jesse (Zoe) Wise Jr., Eli Wise, Eleanor Wise, and D. Morales, as well as his great-grandchildren, Mark Wise and Trinity Wise.

Larry will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and his memory will live on in the woods he roamed, the family traditions he cherished, and the lessons of honesty and love he passed down.

The family would like to thank Larry's longtime companion, Brenda Brandeberry, for helping care for him, as well as Heartland Hospice for their amazing care.

Arrangements are being handled by SMITH-CRATES FUNERAL HOME, North Baltimore.

Memorial contribu-tions maybe made to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Cashier's Office, P.O. Box 30451, Lansing, MI 48909.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.smithcrates.com.