Lawrence Shendell

Larry R. Shendell, of North Caldwell, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025. To those who loved him, he will always be remembered as so much more than his accomplishments. Larry was the rock, the steady hand, and the greatest source of love.

Born in Jersey City and raised in Linden, Larry charted his own remarkable path. He graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University, earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Temple University, and proudly served his country as a dentist in the United States Navy, where he attained the rank of Lieutenant. Later, he built his private practice in Livingston, where for decades he cared for patients with a gentle touch and a heart that treated everyone like family.

He celebrated finishing his Navy service by buying his dream car, a burnt-orange 1972 convertible Corvette Stingray, which he kept in great condition all his life. He loved the beach, found peace on the golf course, and had an adventurous spirit when traveling, especially to Ireland with his wife. And when the Ryder Cup was on, his joy, laughter, and spirited commentary could fill a house.

But what defined Larry the most was not what he owned or the career he built. It was how he loved. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend, the kind of man who never once said “no” when someone needed help. He gave of himself constantly with humor and humility and he made every one of us feel cared for in ways that words cannot capture.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Debra Carr; his proud son, Devin, and partner Cristy; his siblings, Allen Shendell, Ilene Shendell, and Nancy Falik with her husband, Jay and his sister in law Jane; along with extended family and countless friends who will carry his love, kindness, and steady presence in their hearts forever.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the New Jersey Golf Foundation Caddie Scholarship Fund at njgolf.org/caddie-scholarship.