Lawrence “Pops” Martin Meehan
Lawrence Martin Meehan, age 100 years, of Stratford, CT passed away on February 1, 2023 in Shelton, CT, just shy of his 101st birthday.
Lawrence “Larry” was born on February 20, 1922 in Bridgeport, CT to the late Albert and Frances Buchanan Meehan. He was the beloved spouse of the late Elizabeth Gill Meehan.
After graduating from Harding High School, Larry enlisted in the US Navy. He was part of the Greatest Generation, having served in World War II on the US Thaddeus Parker (YMS 369) a minesweeper ship in the Pacific Theater, which included Japan, Tinian, Saipan and the Mariana Islands. For his service, Larry received five distinguished medals. He developed lifelong friends from his Navy days.
After serving our country, Larry went on to serve the City of Bridgeport proudly and valiantly as a Captain of the Bridgeport Fire Department for 33 years. After his retirement, and the passing of his loving wife, he then returned to the workforce and was employed by the US Postal Service. He loved working in the Stratford branch and regarded his co-workers as his extended family. After 37 years, he begrudgingly retired at the age of 93! Larry was also a skilled carpenter and constructed numerous houses throughout the Bridgeport area.
Larry’s greatest passions were his faith and his family. He was a devout Catholic and he was extremely proud of his family, extended family and many friends. His attendance at every grandchild’s sporting or school event earned him the endeared term “Pops”.
Larry spent some of his happiest days with family on ski mountains, the shore of Long Island Sound, and at Sandy Island Family Camp on Lake Winnipesaukee, NH. Sandy Island held a special place in his heart where he attended annually for over 40 years. He enjoyed outdoor activities there such as swimming, kayaking, horseshoes, spectating the annual softball game, and meals in the dining hall with loved ones.
Larry was blessed with a long and fulfilling life. He enjoyed community events such as parades, Irish festivals, cookouts, and sporting events. His Irish wit and legendary storytelling generated countless friends.
He proudly served as a past Aide to the Grand Marshal at the annual Milford St. Patrick’s Day Parade. He was a member of the Gaelic American Club and the Bridgeport Area Retired Fire Department Association.
Survivors include his three children, Maureen Meehan Birge (husband James) of Milford, Lawrence “Skip” Meehan (wife Eileen) of Stratford, Kenneth Meehan M.D. (wife Frieda) of Hanover, N.H. and 7 grandchildren, including Ryan Birge (wife Alice) of Stratford, Elizabeth “Bitty” Ritchie (husband Chris) of Stratham, NH, Timothy Birge (wife Allison) of Milford, Colin Meehan (wife Meg) of Milford, Kathleen “Kate” Griswold (husband Jake) of Orange, Jack Meehan and Bridget Meehan (both of Hanover, NH). In addition, Larry is survived by 8 great-grandchildren including Emma and Tyler Ritchie of Stratham, NH, Gavin, Michaela and James Lawrence Birge of Milford, Maeve and Brynn Meehan of Milford and Rosalie Griswold of Orange. Larry is also survived by his sister, Patricia Washburn of Trumbull, CT and numerous nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.
Larry was predeceased by two brothers, Frank (wife Marion) and Albert Meehan (wife Mary), a sister, Anna Meehan Esalnek and brother-in-law, Donald
Washburn.
Larry’s family extend their sincere appreciation and gratitude to the staff at Crosby Commons Assisted Living Facility for their loving care and support during his time as a resident. In addition, a special thanks to Nadine and Utylyn for their unwavering care over the past year.
Friends and family may call from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 BROAD ST., MILFORD, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 11 a.m. at Saint Mary Church (Precious Blood Parish) 70 Gulf St., Milford, CT. Interment with Military Honors will take place at Saint Michael Cemetery, 2205 Stratford Ave., Stratford, CT 06615.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider contributions in Larry’s memory to either The Stratford Veteran’s Museum or Quilts of Valor Foundation. In the spirit of “Pops”, live life to fullest, stay active, cherish your loved ones, and choose compassion and kindness. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com