Lawrence Coulter Hill, widely known as Larry, passed away on July 1, 2024, at the age of 86 in Forsyth, Montana. Born on June 30, 1938, in Casa Grande, Arizona, Larry grew up to be an exceptional storyteller with a friendly and outgoing personality, treating everyone he met as a friend.
His journey began in Phoenix, where he attended Whittier Grade School followed by North High. After graduating high school, he joined a local car club, showing his prized 1939 Chevy four-door sedan.
He worked as a draftsman at Arizona Public Service for 13 years and served as a volunteer for the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Posse. He was an active member of the Phoenix Rod and Gun Club, achieving notable recognition by qualifying for the State Civilian Pistol Team. In 1961, his team competed at Camp Perry, Ohio, and placed 7th in class. Larry’s shooting skills were admirable, often being a top competitor in shooting competitions.
He later moved to Helena, Montana, where he briefly worked at a smelter before joining the Mountain Bell Telephone Company in Livingston. After two years of installing equipment in phone offices, Larry relocated to Forsyth, taking a position as a telephone man. He dedicated 21 years to the company before retiring. Post-retirement, Larry enjoyed life on his farm, indulging in his passions for recreational shooting, reloading, hunting, and blacksmithing; along with simpler pleasures like reading, watching westerns on the tv, and eating ice cream.
Larry’s legacy is cherished by his wife, Pam Hill; his siblings, Jill Wierick and Don Hill; his children, Troy Hill (Terri) and Lori Paris (Tom), and Clay Hill (Julie); along with his grandchildren, Mallorie, Taylor, Tatum, Riley, and Coulter; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Larry Hill Sr., his mother, Marjorie Hill(VanZile), sisters Anita Verzi and Loretta Delong, and his daughter Lissa Palmer.
Larry will be remembered not just for his achievements and hobbies, but for the warmth and generosity he extended to all who knew him. His stories and friendship will be dearly missed.
Andy and Donna Mitzkus says
Condolences to the family. Always enjoyed seeing Larry and visiting. God bless the family in your time of sorrow.
Jack and Beverly Nile says
Sending condolences to you and your family. Larry always had a smile and a laugh.
Norma Rangel Wegmann says
please except Bob and my condolences to you Pam and familly Larry was a great neighbor and friend. He will be missed by all that knew him.
Mindy Hubbard says
Oh how I will miss our visits. My heart goes out to your family. I miss you already!
Patrick A Belgarde says
RIP Larry you will be missed. Sorry Pam and family’s
Eileen Zavarella says
I am so glad we had the opportunity to see both of you, although quite a few years ago. My prayers, thoughts, and sympathy to all.
Collene Hill says
Pam and children: Sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. He’s out of pain now , but oh how we will miss him. He was such a joy to be around. Collene Hill.
Connie Brown says
Condolences to Larry’s family I always enjoyed the stories when he stopped by the newspaper office.
Hold tight to the memories you shared!
Janet says
Pam,
So sorry for your loss. I will miss him. Loved dancing with you guys.
May the Lord bless you.
Janet
Julie Stoddard says
Pam and family, Steve and I extend our condolences. I always enjoyed visiting with Larry and talking about horses.
janice shaver says
Our family will always remember Larry .Our boys were lucky enough to share some good times with him at shooting competitions ,sharing some hot Mexican food and some laughs. He never failed to ask how the two boys were doing and was appreciative of their service to our country, I will miss visiting with him. I’ll never forget the time Bruce was gone, and Larry helped me get cows off the highway in the middle of the night! Pam, I’m keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Happy memories will comfort you.
Claude and Nina krueger says
Larry ole buddy!! Sure wished i would have stopped more often! I will miss visiting with you and Pam!!
Gil and Dynella says
Pam and family: Sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. As the obituary says, Larry always had a smile for one. He never passed by without saying Hi. Thoughts of comfort for all . Dynella and Gil
Dennis says
I am sorry, I could not make the service, but after my mini stroke, I am afraid to drive out of town but know that my thoughts and prayers or with the family
Pamela Miller says
Clay and Pam my blessings to you and the family
Conni Heuett - Beckett says
I’m deeply sorry for your loss. Uncle Larry was truly remarkable. I believe he and my Dad are now reminiscing and cherishing the good times they shared together.
Dick Sterns says
Sorry for the Hill family of the loss. I always enjoyed talking with Larry had lots of stories when we lived in Forsyth. Going to miss talking with him when I would see him from time to time.