The Lester Public Library Foundation established the Dr. Larry Kaner Endowment on October 15, 2024, through a generous gift of $25,000 from his wife, Betty, and their children. Earnings from this endowment will support youth services at the Lester Public Library in Two Rivers, Wisconsin.

Dr. Kaner’s story is deeply woven into the fabric of the Two Rivers community. In 1957, following his medical internship at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth, he accepted what he thought would be a temporary family practice position in Two Rivers, anticipating a call to military service as a physician during the Korean War. When the war ended soon after, Dr. Kaner and Betty chose to make Two Rivers their permanent home. For the next 40 years, Dr. Kaner cared for generations of families while he and Betty raised their three children—Rob, Ric, and Lisa—and became deeply engaged in the life of the community.

In 1962, Dr. Kaner and two colleagues founded the Two Rivers Clinic. Known for his dedication and expertise, he served for 20 years as the community health officer and as the certified medical doctor for the two local nuclear power plants. Over the course of his career, Dr. Kaner delivered more than 2,000 babies, leaving an enduring legacy of care and compassion.

Dr. Kaner passed away on March 1, 2024, at age 92. His life of service continues to inspire, and the endowment created in his name will benefit the children and families of Two Rivers for generations to come.