Laurence “Larry” Koplan
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Laurence “Larry” Koplan, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away at his home on August 16, 2024, at the age of 81, after a courageous battle with Lewy Body Dementia. Larry was surrounded by the love and care of his devoted wife, Beverly, and their children, Michelle and David, who stood by his side throughout his journey with this challenging illness.
Born in Boston, MA, and raised in Brookline by his parents, Selma and Herman Koplan, Larry grew up with a strong sense of determination and style. He was a distinguished gentleman, always sharply dressed with never a hair out of place. His attention to detail and refined taste were evident in every aspect of his life, from his career to his hobbies.
A graduate of Bentley College, Larry began his career in 1966 at a shoe factory in Marlboro, MA. Through hard work and dedication, he climbed the corporate ladder, eventually becoming Vice President, then President, and later the owner of the successful women’s shoe factory, Marlboro Footwear, Inc. In 1987, Larry made a pivotal decision to transition the business into importing women’s shoes, a venture he led with great success until his retirement due to his illness.
Larry was a man of many passions. He had a lifelong love for cars, boats, and traveling, particularly relishing his time on traditional annual family cruises and loved spending time at their Cape house in Falmouth and yearly 4th of July vacations on their Snookiejoy boat to Nantucket.
Larry’s sharp eye for real estate and home construction led him to buy and flip houses, a hobby that brought him immense satisfaction. Yet, above all, Larry was devoted to his family. He had a great sense of humor with a contagious laugh. He and Beverly enjoyed fine dining and treasured time spent with their friends.
Larry’s deep love and admiration for his wife, Beverly, were evident throughout their 58 years of marriage. He always put her on a pedestal, and his frequent purchases of flowers no doubt helped the local floral business thrive. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to his loved ones and friends left an indelible mark on them all. Larry’s generous spirit extended far beyond his immediate circle, as he was a passionate supporter of numerous charities, always striving to make a difference.
Larry is survived by his loving wife Beverly, his daughter Michelle and her husband Mark, his son David and his wife Elizabeth. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Zachary and his wife Hannah, Haley, Lily, and Drew. He also leaves behind his sister Lois and her husband Harry, his sister-in-law Bonnie and her husband Steven, as well as many loving cousins, nieces, nephews, and his beloved dog, Zoey.
Larry will be remembered for his warmth, kind and loving heart, determination, impeccable style, and his infectious humor. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
Services at Temple Beth Shalom, 670 Highland Avenue, Needham, MA on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at 11 am. Interment to follow at Newton Cemetery & Arboretum, 791 Walnut Street, Newton, MA. Shiva on Tuesday immediately following the burial at the home of Michelle and Mark Eagle until 6 pm and continuing on Wednesday August 21st from 2-5 pm and 7-9 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in Larry Koplan’s memory may be made to Lewy Body Dementia Association, 912 Killian Hill Road S.W., Lilburn, GA 30047 or www.lbda.org.