Lawrence "Larry" Antony Wisne was born on December 17, 1947 in Detroit, Michigan to Anthony and Hazel. He graduated from University of Detroit Jesuit High School in 1966, earned his bachelor’s degree from Santa Clara University in 1970 and his master’s degree from University of Denver in 1972.
Larry had an illustrious professional career, taking over as President of Progressive Tool and Die (PICO) in 1979. He built the business that started in his father’s garage into an international powerhouse, culminating with multiple appearances on Forbes’ list of 500 largest private companies in America in the late nineties and sale of the business to Fiat S.p.A in 1999. Additionally, he became one of the premier restaurateurs in the Midwest, advancing fine dining in the Detroit area by startingTribute Restaurant, which garnered national attention for its innovate approach to cuisine and top-flight clientele.
The Lawrence Wisne Foundation seeks to honor the charitable acts of his lifetime through continued generosity in his name.
LAWRENCE ANTONY WISNE
In his lifetime, Larry Wisne sought to lift and support individuals experiencing challenges. Guided by the directives of his faith, Lawrence supported scholarships, social services, the creation of safe spaces for at-risk children and women, and assistance for individuals struggling with poverty. He participated in funding advancements in transplant surgery, cancer treatment and organ donation.