Laurence “Larry” Charles Willson, age 72 of Shepherd, MT passed away on Friday, July 7, 2023.
Larry was born on June 10, 1951, in Big Timber, MT. He was the son of Charles F. Willson Jr. and Evelyn V. Larson. After high school, he attended college at Miles Community College in Miles City where he wrestled. He was drafted into the United States Army on April 21, 1971. He served as a sergeant for the Army in the 82nd Airborne Division, Army Rangers. He was honorably discharged on April 20, 1973. Larry married Belinda Kiniston on August 23, 1974 in Dagmar, MT. They moved around from small town to small town working on ranches until they relocated to Shepherd, MT in February of 1989, where he has served the Vermilion Ranch for the last 34 years.
Larry was a family man, to him it was everything. He was always there to help, heal, listen and give advice when you needed it. Whether you were being deployed for a mission, needed a shoulder to cry on, or an ear to listen he was always there for you, and could relate to most. He was truly a rock and mentor to so many people. He raised his family to have the following values: love your spouse with all your heart, be polite, respectful, honest and hard working. Larry would often tell his children, “Do your best, that is all you can do.” He was very proud of his family, which is the biggest treasure that he leaves behind.
Larry is survived by his wife of 48 years Belinda Willson of Shepherd: his children: Kimberly Willson, Larry Jr (Amy)Willson, Emmett (Jillian) Willson, Emory (Sarah) Willson, Royce (Hannah) Willson; his grandchildren: Casen, Taygen, Rafe, Lane, Briar, Becca, Caleb, Nadine, Bailey & Hewett; his siblings: Louise Bainter, Kenn (Dee) Willson as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A funeral service for Larry will be held on Friday, July 14, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. at the Barkemeyer Park in Huntley, MT. Interment will be held at a later date in the Pleasantview Cemetery in Ballentine, MT. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
In lieu of flowers or gifts to the family, feel free to donate to any wrestling program or charitable organization of your choice in Larry’s Honor.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Friday July 14, 2023
Barkemeyer Park
117 Northern Ave
Huntley, Montana 59037
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Friday July 14, 2023
Barkemeyer Park
117 Northern Ave
Huntley, Montana 59037
Share
Howard Shawver Family says
Willson Family
I am saddened to hear the news about Larry.
One thing I know for sure is he raised up a fine bunch of men. He was a hard worker for sure and he definitely passed that onto his boys. He was one of the good ones. Rest easy Larry.
Ken Rauch says
LARRY brightened the room when he entered! He always had a smile and after a visit about trailers or parts for trailers he would let
you know he was glad to see you! The Good Lord received a real gentleman!! Rest in Peace Dear Friend.
Ken Rauch – K.R.Rauch Co. WILSON TRAILERS
Laura Jane Willson says
So very sorry for your loss.
Dolores Meidinger Willson says
So sorry for the loss of your Father, Emmett and all the Willson family.
Sandy and Ron Thomas says
We went to school with Larry in Big Timber. He was such a kind polite person and we always loved his jovial laugh. Last time we visited with Larry was here in Big Timber at the Frosty Freeze where he had stopped for lunch; very thankful we got to see him. We extend our deepest sympathy to all of Larry’s family and friends.
Gayle & Jerry Ellis says
So sorry to see Larry’s passing. So thankful got to talk to him at the service at Ballantine cemetery. Our prayers to all of you. Hugs
Nikki & Dustin Ostrum says
Prayers from our family to yours. He will be dearly missed. Sending love.
Dana Dribnenki says
I met Larry when I was a very young man early seventies. He was out roping calves for us on our ranch up Big Timber canyon. He was a fantastic roper and we did it the good old fashioned way. By hand and by rope. He was a lot of fun to be around and everyone I know had only truly good things to say about him! Jesus has another good roper in heaven maybe just to enjoy the days ahead when the King comes back on His horse as well! Hope the love of Jesus Christ fills your hearts and your lives as you celebrate the life and the death of our friend! Blessings to all who read this and know you are loved by the King of Kings and Lord of Lords as well!
Dan and Karlan Bicknese says
Bea, we are so sorry to know our special friend has left us. He and Dan were very close since they went to college at Miles City…His heart is broken to say the least. We’ve been friends of the family for a long time, exchanging Christmas letters every year. We’ve watched the kids grow into fine men with their own families. And a very talented daughter, Kimberly . So talented and directed as Larry instilled in his kids. I’m sure he would say “ there’s nothing you can’t do if you put your mind to it”. His family was blessed to have Larry as their mentor and friend. Have peace our friend, may God bless you and keep you.
Mike & Judy Toennis Family says
Our thoughts and prayers are with your families.
Susan Quanbeck says
Sorry for your loss. LARRY was always a friendly man. Praying for your peace.
Chrissy says
Emmit, sorry for your loss sending prayers.
Chrissy wheeler