Larry Warren Coker Jr. (Buz) passed away Wednesday, June 7, 2017, at the Rosebud Health Care Center after a courageous battle with brain tumors. Although it seems the cancer won, in reality Buz was the victor because he immediately stepped into Heaven with his Lord.
Buz was born March 22, 1952, at Fort Benning, Georgia, minutes before his twin sister, Linda, to Larry Warren and Virginia (Ransom) Coker. They joined older sisters Jean and Sandra. Later twin brothers, David and Dennis, joined the family. In this loving, nurturing family, Buz’s character and values were formed which helped him live a life of integrity, quality, and goodness.
In May of 1974, Buz graduated from Trinity University, in San Antonio, Texas, receiving a regular Army commission through ROTC. August 16, 1975, Buz married Ellen Lee of Forsyth, Montana. He gave her a beautiful life for the next 41 years, as the honeymoon never ended.
Buz and his family served 25 years in the Army. He was a Field Artillery Officer entering as a 2nd Lieutenant and retiring as a full Colonel. He commanded multiple batteries and culminated with commanding the 6-32 FA (MLRS) Battalion at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He considered it a dream command.
He served in units of 155 and 105 howitzers, Pershing missiles, and the Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS). He was tagged early in his career for the nuclear capable systems which demanded zero mistakes. He was cool under pressure and stress just made him tenacious. Buz was a Cold War officer. He entered the service as Vietnam fell to Communism. He served with the Pershing missiles that broke the threat to Western Europe. He savored the demise of the Berlin Wall. His last duty station was Heidelberg, Germany, with that country reunited. How sweet it is.
As much as “the mission” always came first, and Buz always got it done, his priorities were the soldiers and officers under his command. In the mess hall or in the field he ate last. He counseled, he mentored, he encouraged. He particularly focused on young families. He had a “talk” for the man getting married, another “talk” when a baby was due. He and Ellen offered Lamaze lessons in his units. He let others take leave first, even when his rank could give him privileges.
Buz took Jesus as his Savior in March of 1986. His life changed. He became even more a servant in every facet of his life. He was a loving, influential father to his four children: Sarah Anne born at Ft Hood, Texas, Amanda Lee born in Heilbronn, West Germany, Charlotte Elizabeth born at Ft Campbell, Tennessee, and Matthew Robert born at Riverdale, Georgia. He nurtured and encouraged them to strive for excellence, to live with integrity, and to serve the Lord. He was the backbone of our home school. He would say to you, “My children are my credentials.” He was very proud of them.
Upon retirement he chose to move his family to Montana and join the Lee Family ranching operation as the resident greenhorn. He embraced the western lifestyle. He was never happier than when he walked out fences or fed heifers until they would eat out of his hand. His well known sense of humor would surface often. He declared himself most proud of acquiring his PHD (post hole digger) and achieving the rank of “Rear Admiral” on the branding crew.
Any job that needed doing, Buz would do. That applied to everything and every group he was involved with. He enjoyed the challenge of problem solving. He served however and wherever there was a need in our faith communities over the years. He was an active, faithful member of First Baptist Church of Forsyth. He served as a Scoutmaster for a number of years and enjoyed mentoring boys into men.
Also once in Montana, he got hooked on target shooting. He loved to reload, he loved every caliber for the different challenges they provided. His favorite was the buffalo rifle. He participated in 17 Quigley Matches and was the Quigley Director during his last years. Each match was a thrill for him and brought him joy. He placed third overall one year. He especially enjoyed shooting with his children and family friend, Nicole Schwend.
Left to honor Buz and remember his love are his wife, Ellen; daughters: Sarah Anne (Darren) Hoffmann; Amanda Coker; and Charlotte Coker; son, Matthew (Shannon) Coker; grandchildren: Daniel, Sarah, and Matthew Hoffmann, and Susanna and Elanor Coker; father, Larry Warren (MaryAnn) Coker Sr.; sisters: Jean Gregg, Sandi (David) Molitoris, and Linda (Doyl) Gray; brothers, David Coker and Dennis (Elizabeth) Coker; in-laws, J. R and Mariellen Lee; sister in Law, Laura Lee Anderson; brother in law, Bruce Lee; 18 nieces and nephews; as well as aunts, uncles, and cousins. Buz was preceded to Heaven by his loving mother; grandparents; 2 aunts; 4 uncles; and 1 cousin. He also leaves behind many friends that he enjoyed. Buz would say to each of us, “Let’s meet again in glory.”
Buz’s friends and family are invited to celebrate his life and his victory in Jesus at First Baptist Church, 1625 Cedar St, Forsyth. Viewing will be 2pm-6pm, Tuesday, June 20, 2017. A funeral service is set at the church at 10am, Wednesday, June 21, 2017, with a graveside service following in the Forsyth Cemetery. A luncheon will be provided at the church fellowship hall for further visiting.
Flowers are wonderful, but if you would rather honor Buz with a memorial gift, his family suggests the Fisher House Foundation, that supports US military families worldwide, or the Rosebud Foundation, which is local and includes the medical facility that gave Buz excellent, compassionate care during his last weeks. In reality, your prayers for him over these last two years were the greatest gift. He and his family are very grateful.
Service Schedule
Family to Receive Friends
2:00 to 6:00 PM
Tuesday June 20, 2017
First Baptist Church
Forsyth, Montana 59327
Funeral Service
10:00 AM
Wednesday June 21, 2017
First Baptist Church
Forsyth, Montana 59327
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Al and Claudia says
Be not sad Buz died- be glad he lived!
Pam Witmer says
Through your tears and in your sorrows, know that God holds you close. “Be still and know that I am God” Psalm 46:10 Buzz was loved by many and will be greatly missed here, but knowing we will meet again is a comfort for us all. Those who die in Christ will live eternally. I Corinthians 15:54, 57.
May you find comfort in knowing so many care and that our prayers are with you…..
Jerry and Pam Witmer
Dawne Buck says
Ellen and family, I am saddened for all of us and will miss Buz greatly. As Claudia said, I am glad he lived! After I found out I was listening to YNOP and Chris Tomlin’s song, Home played and I could see Buz there. Prayers are with you all .
Tiffany Johnson says
So very sorry to hear of Buz passing. Words cannot be expressed how much my heart aches for the family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Mark Scott says
Buzz was a friend to all. He was well respected by everyone. We will all miss him. Our thoughts and prayers to you Ellen and family.
Mark Scott says
Was terrible hearing about Buzz passing away. Our deepest sympathies to you Ellen and family.
Connie Brown says
To Buz’s family and friends rejoice in knowing someone as special as Buz was! Where there is a void, a memory will fill. My prayers are with each of you during this time, may God grant you peace.
Nancy Hakes Smith says
Oh Ellen. I am so sorry to hear that Buz passed away. Your family was like family to the kids and I when we were there. You both were always there and I remember him crawling under my trailer in the middle of the winter to fix my plumbing because my landlord wouldn’t. I have such fond memories of the Bible studies and dinners at your house. My Prayers and Love r with you, Matt and the girls.
Janice says
Dear Ellen and family,
Buzz was a very sweet man with a wonderful Christian heart and soul. He will be missed by everyone who knows him. He was a great husband, father and friend. May God comfort you all.
For the Lord does not abandon anyone forever. Though He brings grief, He also shows compassion to the greatness of His unfailing love. (Lamentations 3:22-26, 31-32)
Thinking of you and prayers for you all.
Love Janice & Melissa
Sharon Borla says
Ellen and family,
I am so happy that I had the opportunity to get to know Buz. What a remarkable man! His strength, character and poise while dealing with his illness was amazing. He was someone I could truly say I admired. I send you my love and prayers for comfort. May you cherish your many happy memories. God’s Love.
Terry & Susan says
God’s comforting hands on all of you during this sad time. Thank you Buz for being a good and faithful servant, who reflected the light of Jesus for us all to follow. We’re glad you’re not in pain, but your wise words in song , will always remain; and the smile that’ll be remembered is you glorifying God, right up to the last refrain. Til we see again, Brother.
Lynn Tompkins says
So sorry to hear Buz has passed way. He and his good works will be missed in the community.
Terri and Charlie Brown says
Ellen, please accept our heartfelt condolences.
Debbie Anderson says
Ellen, my thoughts, prayers and love are with you and all of your family. I feel privileged to have known you, Buz and your girls. You are such a remarkable family to everyone who knows you. I know Buz is with Jesus and that must be so very exciting for him. I cannot even imagine the sorrow and pain you must be feeling, but Buz is there waiting for you. I pray that your memories will help you get through this and of course your many family and friends. Please know that I am there with you in spirit since I cannot be there in person. Everyone who knows Buz will miss him. I’m so very sorry. God bless you.
Eric says
I am praying earnestly for all of you! No longer is Buz weakened! He is now running and praising his lord and savior! Thank you Lord for the time he has spent here with us, I have learned so much from this man of God
Penny Hart says
Thoughts and prayers to the Coker family, Buz was a great man, he will be missed
Randy and Penny Hart
sharon cope says
My thoughts and prayers to all. Buz will be missed by all. Sharon Cope
Lynn Anderson says
Ellen and Family – I was just thinking of Buz and all of you the other day and thought about calling to say hi. Today I learn that Buz is with his Lord and Savior and is safe in his loving and healing arms. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. May God’s peace and comfort be with you during this time and all times. It was a blessing to get to know Buz, Ellen and the family and to see and feel their love and faith in the Lord. Thank you for being a light in the world!
Kyle & Janna McBride says
Ellen & Family,
Buz and your family were so helpful, encouraging, and supportive of Kyle & I when we moved to Forsyth! We pray for your hearts to be comforted by our mighty Lord.
Matt Broaddus says
COL Coker was one of the very best leaders that I have ever known! I also know that I am just one of a multitude of U.S. Army officers who sincerely appreciated his authentic gift of influencing others through his transformational presence. COL Coker was truly blessed with all the traits that we hope for in senior leaders. He was exceptionally competent, confident, industrious, humble, balanced, and absolutely devoted to Ellen and his children. I first met COL Coker (out of respect I never became comfortable calling him ‘Buz’ although he told me I should a number of times) in Bosnia in 1996 and I got to know him quite well. As I reflect on our time together, I do not remember a single conversation that did not involve a positive reference to his family. He was a great example for our entire organization and we were all better for knowing him! Please know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers as we both morn your loss, celebrate his life, and preserve his memory. Love, Matt, Angela, Elise, and Dan
Tom and Julie says
Like the photo I gave Buz Now he will see the new Sunrise! Prayers to all who will miss him here! He was a blessing to us for sure!
Becky Heberle says
He was a leader which will e missed. May God guide you and have his arms around you. Keep your faith.bhai hi
Jan and Tracy McElveen says
So glad I had the privilege to meet Buz and his family. Thinking of all of the Coker family and praying for strength for the days ahead. Special thoughts and prayer to his wonderful Dad and our dear friends, Larry and Mary Ann Coker.
Lena Dresbach says
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Buzz blessed everyone he met. I will personally miss his ever ready quick wit and smile. love and prayers Lena, Rod and Aaron Dresbach
Randy Ellingrod says
We lost a very good man,and a man about family and friends. Take care ,Buzz,you are in a better place.Randy,Loyce,Lorianne and Sara Ellingrod from WY
Cathy Cooney says
Ellen, Marvin called me yesterday to give me the news. I am so sorry. I didn’t realize Buzz was ill. It’s been too long since I’ve visited you in Forsyth. I’m thinking about you. Big hugs! I’ll come see when I get back out to Eastern Montana.
Diana Robinette says
Thoughts and prayers to the Coker family, may the Lord be with you and guide you.
Chris and Christy Nielsen says
Ellen and family, we were sorry to hear of Buz’s passing. He was a really nice person. We both thought a lot of him. May the Lord give you strength and peace. We’ll be praying for you
Linda Cole Mims says
Buz and his twin Linda were the first twins I ever saw. I was five years old when I met them at their grandparents’
home. I have long admired Buzz and Ellen’s love for our Lord. They set a wonderful example for their family and friends.
Linda Cole Mims
Waneeta Farris says
Ellen and girls, I didn’t know Buz well but those that did spoke very highly of him. May you find comfort in the memories you have and knowing he is now in God’s arms. May God Bless you and give you strength.
Rocky & Carol Plympton says
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. May God hold you above these troublesome waters. You are all very special to us and to this community. Let us know if there is anything we can do to lighten the weight. We are thankful that God is with you.
Russ & Lexie Hall says
To say we will miss you really does not give a full measure of the loss we are feeling. Buz, you are so deeply seeded in our hearts and fabric of our lives and have been a brother in so many ways to us. From our days running the grounds of Trinity, and even now, you have been a mentor, American Soldier, a hero, terrific Father, and wonderful Friend. We have been so blessed to have you and Ellen as lifelong friends – from youth to “getting up there over the hill”. Oh how we will miss you on this earthly venture. We are better for having you in our hearts and to have shared this earthly adventure together. As one Soldier to another, Buz, your service made a difference, you helped make us better people and proud to have served with you. Even teaching us to brand a few steers along the way!
So thank you, Buz, for being a witness for the Lord and a testimony to His abiding grace. It’s a comfort to know you are well cared for in His loving arms. Until we walk together again, another time, in a better place We love you and Ellen so much. God Bless, we will see you again.
Randy & Janet Stanhope says
We are so very sorry for your loss; however, take peace in knowing there is another angel in heaven.
Elaine & Joe Rodriguez says
Dear Ellen and children,
Elaine and I offer our most sincere respect and condolences. Larry is now asleep awaiting the glorious hope of the final resurrection made possible by our Lord Jesus. Larry was an inspiration to many. I remember him as full of wisdom and a quiet confidence that made soldiers want to follow him. Although we spent four years together at Trinity, I got to know him much better over the past year during our regular calls. We talked a lot about Jesus and His goodness. Larry’s strong faith encouraged me and I marveled at how God had transformed both of us since our wild days at Trinity. Larry has graduated to the next level and is sanctified in Christ. May God bless the Coker family and show his comfort and peace in big way. We love you all!
Mike and Lynn Blakesley says
Ellen and Family,
What a great, kind man we all have lost! We thought very highly of Buz and were so appreciative of all he did for the Quigley. We drove out to the Quigley area this past weekend and were so sad to think we won’t see him and get to visit with him like we usually did out there. We are honored to have known Buz and your family and pray that you have some wonderful memories to sustain you through this trying time.
Nancy Foley says
To the family of Larry “Buz” Coker. My family sends their deepest sympathy to you. Our thoughts and prayers goes out to you. John 5:29
Bob, Marlys, Scott, and Kristina Lee says
Ellen and family:
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. My first memory of the name Buz Coker was when I was in early high school and you were home for the summer. I was over at your folks visiting and Toppy got a phone call and said that Buz was on the phone. You got all excited and went upstairs to take the phone call. I asked Mariellen who is Buz and she said your boyfriend. Our families were blessed to have the Coker family move back to Forsyth and become part of the ranch. I always knew when I was sorting cattle, Buz had my back covered and saved me from many wrecks. I will miss Buz the rest of my life and I want you to know I will always be there for you and your family. With lots of love.
Bob, Marlys, Scott, and Kristina
Bobby and Nancy Pepper says
Buz Coker was a good man. We grieve his passing. Our hearts go out to our cousin Ellen and the family. God is with us, especially now.
Shannon and Gary Crable says
Ellen and family,
You and yours are in our prayers. We loved spending time with Buzz and your family. One of my favorite times was the ridge ride Buzz took us all on when Leslie and family were here. We love you all so much.
Gary, Shannon, Andy, and Keith
Galen Danis says
Ellen, Buz”s sickness and death were the catalyst for the most splendid expressions (In Uncharted Waters) of grief and faith that I have ever read. Our Omniscient God is pleased.
The rest of us are awed.
Galen
Kelly Fugere says
Ellen and Family! Buz is in our Prayers and intention sheet in the St Agnes Catholic church here in Red Lodge,Mt. I had the privilege of meeting and working with Buz several years on the Lee Ranch. I alway’s enjoyed the advice from Buz through our visit’s . He was very proud of his family!
Jamie & Derek Cline says
Continued prayers for each of you in the coming days. We will never forget our visits to Forsyth and the love and hospitality shown to us. Love and grace to Ellen and children.
K.W. Stabelfeldt says
Buz became a true and dear friend of mine. His passing saddens me deeply. But we will go on with God’s plan. God Bless the Coker Family.
S.K. Stabelfeldt says
Words cannot express how I feel about Buz’s passing right now, but I have accepted that he is with Our Lord. My prayers are with his family and I thank God for the honor of knowing Buz and his family. Buz was a great person and will be missed greatly.
Marie and Chuck Dukes says
We were saddened to learn of your loss. May you treasure the wonderful memories made throughout the years. Òur thoughts and prayers will be with you and the family.
Chuck and Marie Dukes
Turbeville, South Carolina
Donna and Denise says
Ellen and family,
We were deeply saddened when the call came that Buz had passed on to his eternal reward in Heaven. Know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Your family’s love for one another and faith in the Lord are an inspiration and example for all to follow. We will always remember Buz’s smile, his positive spirit, and the love he had for our Lord and for his family. We admire your family’s strength and know that it, your faith and love will get you through the days ahead.
Love and prayers, Donna and Denise
MIke and Sunny of Clovis/Fresno says
Never met Buzz in person. But he reached us through his daughter, Sarah Anne, when she joined our church in Clovis, CA. We all loved Sarah Anne as soon as we met her. I remember my wife saying, “Whoever raised that woman did a wonderful job.” When cancer was diagnosed, we got to know Buzz through his testimony to the very end, as we read his blog, waited anxiously for each bit of news from Sarah Anne, and prayed for him and the family. And that is a wonderful testimony–that his love of Christ would reach thousands of miles to people he never met. I know that I speak for our entire church when we extend our prayers in these difficult days. One day we will finally meet Buzz in person.
Bruce and Van Stevens says
An angel winged his way to heaven, he spread his love, devotion, friendship and leadership throughout the time the Lord allowed all of family and friends to share the example he set. Husband, father, son, brother, grandfather and friend, Buz will be greatly missed by all of us that had the privilege to cross his path.
Danny & Sharon Melton says
We were part of a mission team from Calhoun Tennessee First Baptist Church several years ago. Buz and Ellen were great hosts. Buz made sure we saw a cattle roundup. What a privilege to have crossed paths with such a great couple. You are in our prayers.
Yvonne Thigpen says
Ellen, I’ve been praying for you as you traveled this journey with Buz. He was a truly a wonderful man. Imagine the great time he is sharing with Jonathan!
Cathy and Curt Fleming says
Ellen and family – Buzz was a super person and will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.