Larry Avery Bantz, age 57 of Helena, passed away on January 6, 2012 in Helena from a brief illness. He was born December 5, 1954 in Scobey, Montana to Lawrence “Penny” and Geraldine (Knight) Bantz and was raised in Outlook, Montana, graduating from Outlook High School in 1974.
Throughout high school, Larry worked on the McCrory family farm both in Outlook and Canada. After high school, Larry worked in the oil fields and laid cable in Oklahoma, before returning to Montana. In the early 80’s, Larry farmed with his father on the Tange family farm until his father retired at which time Larry took over the full operation of the farm. Larry married Wendy Nelson on June 16, 1984 in Redstone, Montana.
After leaving the farm, Larry and Wendy moved to Helena in 1996 so that Wendy could pursue her nursing degree. Larry worked in excavating and mechanics of heavy equipment gradually retiring over the past two years.
Larry loved the prairies and coulees of Northeastern Montana and disliked the mountains because they blocked his view of the open spaces. He loved working the land and raising cattle. Larry never had idle hands. His activities always had a purpose but the closest thing to a hobby was butchering and sausage making with friends. Larry always lent a helping hand to his neighbors, friends and family, but would seldom ask for their help in return. Larry was as honest as the day is long and nothing angered him more than a lie.
He was preceded in death by his father, Penny. Larry is survived by his wife, Wendy of 27 years; children, Justin Bantz, Jason (Nichole) Bantz, Tyler Bantz, and Bronte Bantz; grandchildren, Christian Ayers, and Lane Bantz; his mother, Geraldine Bantz; sister, Mary Jane (Tim) West all of Helena. Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews and their spouses and children.
A gathering of family and friends celebrating Larry’s life will be held the afternoon of June 17, 2012 at the Cory Nelson farm in Redstone, MT. To offer a condolence or share a memory of Larry, please visit: www.retzfuneralhome.com.
Service Schedule
Service Schedule
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Julie Wilson says
I cried when you passed away. I still cry today. Although I love you dearly, I couldn’t make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest. God broke my heart to prove to me he only takes the best.
Keep this rose going for anyone in heaven that you’ve loved and lost – but never forgot
_____/)___/)______./¯”””/’)
¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯\)¯¯\)¯¯¯’\_„„„,\)
You family is in our thoughs and prayers during this difficult time. Let us know if you need anything even just a hug. Love you all.
The Wilson Family
Shanda Collins says
Aunt Gerry, Wendy and Family;
You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Love,
Shanda, Kipp and Kids
Gary Steinberg says
My deepest sympathies to Larry’s family. He was a good and honest man and I am honored to have known him.
Renee Pipinich says
Wendy, Larry will be greatly missed by everyone. He was very helpful when my husband passed and was right here when times where tough for me! He helped me move hay and it was 20 below.If you need anything I am right down the road. So sorry for your loss. Renee
Sammie Hurtig says
What great memories we have of Larry. He always had a smile a joke. You are all in our prayers. Sammie and Steve
Diane Martin says
So sorry to hear about Larry. I haven’t seen him for many years but have fun memories from when we were young. Saying prayers for all of you.
Diane
Roxanne Rowe says
You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Let the good memories comfort your hearts. God is with you and we will see Larry again!
Priss and Bill says
Wendy and family,
Bill and I are so, so, sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. We are going to miss him greatly, he was a all around great guy.
Our thoughts a prayers are with you and your family.
Sandra Hoyt Petersen says
Dear Wendy, Gerry and Family,
I’m so sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. He was a great Guy. My thoughts and prayers are with you all, may all the memories help you during this difficult time.
God Bless
Love,
Sandra & Russ
Alvin Hollatz says
He was a great friend & classmate.
We had many awsome times together and he’ll be missed.
LuAnne Ordahl Super says
“Mrs. Bantz” Love you. Sending prayers and strength. God help you through….
Barb Fink says
Wendy,Gerry, Mary Jane and family;
was saddened to hear about Larry, will be thinking of you all. Where would a person start, Larry was always there to lend a hand and pretty good at some practical joking.
God Bless you all.
Barb Fink
Donna Smith says
Wendy and family, so very sorry to hear about Larry… Just wanted you to know I’m thinking of you. Warmest sympathy. Donna Smith, Outlook
Donna Bley says
Wendy, you and the kids are in my thoughts and prayers. Heard about Larry while we were on vacation. We were sorry to hear about it. I will miss him driving past my house on the tractor this summer.
Aspyn bantz says
Hi i really wish i could have met you larry and im sorry you never got to meet me i try hard to make you proud when i think of you it hurts me inside and out
love your granddaughter Aspyn♡