:: Melvin "Mel" Larimer

Larimer performed and taught with sheer joy

Longtime camp faculty member and camp alumnus Melvin S. “Mel” Larimer (AS 47, UM 58, IAC staff 62, IAC faculty 62-93) passed away on March 27 in Traverse City. His commitment to music extended throughout region and the entire state of Michigan. 
   
Mel taught in the Traverse City schools from 1962 to 1970 and frequently sought to build connections between Interlochen and the surrounding community. In 1976, Larimer returned to his alma mater, Albion College where he directed the choir for more than 20 years. Even after retirement, Mel remained musically active, conducting choirs at area churches. 

At Interlochen he worked with the high school choir and vocal ensembles, the Festival Choir, and the high school operetta, which he led for 15 summers. He received the Bravo Award form the Interlochen Alumni Association in 1993. Those who performed and learned with Mel remember him as someone with an infectious enthusiasm and love for music.