Lawrence J. Degraff

Lawrence J. DeGraff, 81, known affectionately as Larry, passed away at his Palmyra residence on Wednesday, February 28, 2024. Born on September 12, 1942, to the late Lawrence E. and Yvonne (Dusablon) DeGraff, he is survived by his devoted wife, Sandra L. (Soutiere) DeGraff.

Growing up in the Old North End of Burlington, VT, Larry spent over half his life in a historic John Roberts’ house on Crombie Street. Inherited from his father, he established his own family there before moving to Colchester, VT, and finally relocating to Pennsylvania upon retirement in 1996.

Enlisting in the Vermont Air National Guard in 1964 as a Medical Service Specialist, Larry served for six years. Following an honorable discharge in 1970, he apprenticed with his father in furniture restoration. Eventually, he took over DeGraff’s Furniture Service, operating it in the Burlington area for nearly 25 years.

Larry's lifelong passion for music was evident in his workshop and home, where music was a constant presence. He enjoyed local musical productions and played the harmonica and keyboard by ear. He was also a former Palmyra Sportsmen’s Association member, where he enjoyed target shooting.

Survived by his wife and daughter, Laura DeGraff, and husband, Lee Calfo, Larry is preceded in death by his sister, Claire Ryan. His lifelong friends, Terry Oliver of Tampa, FL, and Richard Blanchard of Essex Junction, VT, also mourn his passing.

At the family's convenience, a private burial will take place at New Mount Calvary Cemetery, Burlington, VT. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Lebanon Humane Society at www.Lebanonhumane.org.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Rothermel-Finkenbinder Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 25 W. Pine St., Palmyra, PA 17078. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.FinkenbinderFamily.com.