Larry G. Stoner, age 73, passed away February 5, 2018 while residing at Apple Cooney Rehab, due to complications from Influenza.
Larry was born in Mifflin, Pennsylvania to David Daniel Stoner and Lucy Ann Kahley. He was one of 14 children. He lived and attended schools in Pennsylvania until joining the Army in 1964 and serving two years and then serving twelve years in the National Guard.
Larry married the love of his life, Shirley Mellott in 1966 and they were married until her passing in 2003. Moving to Montana found Larry working at Carroll College doing maintenance until he retired. He and his wife also lived awhile in Phillipsburg and the Livingston area, but he always had a love for Helena.
During his remaining time in Helena, after his retirement, he worked at Wal-Mart as a greeter. Anyone knowing Larry, imagine him as a greeter. This was his perfect job, and his last job, and according to him, his favorite. Larry also served as a Senior Companion and loved those in his care.
Larry overcame his obstacle of Cancer, going through Lung and Brain Cancer and all the treatment; he was so happy in was in remission thanks to Dr. Weiner and his wonderful staff of nurses. Larry led a fun and productive life; he enjoyed eating out and his Country Music. You could always see Larry sporting an American Flag on his vehicle.
Preceding him in death are his parents; his 12 other siblings, losing his beloved sister, Dot, last; and his wife, Shirley. Larry is survived by his brother, Blair Stoner (Evelyn) of Texas; nieces, Deb Stephen (Dan) of Oregon, Barbara James (Dean) of Oklahoma; his nephew, George Stoner (Lou Ann) of Nevada; a great-niece, Hope Arms (Zack) of Idaho; a brother in law, George Hegi of Idaho; a sister in law, Darlene Coco of Pennsylvania; several other nieces and nephews; a special friend, Deborah Maguire Witham of Helena; and so many other friends (and they know who they are!); and lastly, his beloved and special dog, Buddy.
Larry was special too so many people, please if you can, donate to the Lewis and Clark Humane Society or a favorite charity in Larry’s memory. When you get a chance to play a country western song, sing along as if Larry was with you.
At Larry’s request, there will be no funeral but there will be a Graveside Service with Military Honors at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery, Fort Harrison at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 13, 2018 followed by a gathering at the Senior Center, 200 S. Cruse, at 2:00 p.m.
Please visit below to offer a condolence to the family or to share a memory of Larry.
Blair Stoner says
Sure going to miss talking to you about all the things we did growing up back in Pennsylvania.
Your brother, Blair.
Laura Fix says
God’s speed Larry…..you were one heck of a nice guy. Rest in Peace…..
Shirley Reese says
Larry was such a nice person. He did so much to help others, had a great outlook on life and a wonderful sense of humor. He will be missed!
Dennis and Darlene Abeyta says
Larry and Shirley were dear friends. We lived in Philipsburg at the same time. They babysat our first child if we needed a night out. Our kids called them aunt and uncle. We moved to Helena in 1968. Stoners came later. We spent lots of time together. It breaks our heart to lose Larry . He was a nut, Fun to be around. Always got a hug from him. Until we meet again.
Karen Freiburg says
Larry Larry, gonna miss you bud. Enjoyed having a side kick.to with you. Had so much fun working at Walmart as a greater with you. . Heven just got an angel and a bunch of trouble ?????
Rest in peace my friend ?
shawn smith says
I only knew you a little while Larry. But I loved you as a brother and friend. I will miss our jokes but will cherish the memories you gave.
Myrna Smith says
Larry you will definately be missed and i will miss your teasing as will litttle Kayla, she has never forgot thhe day you were teasing her about going on a date lol, Rest easy my friend it is your turn to live easy and comfortable in Heaven.
Brian & Linda Lee says
Sorry to hear this. My bad for not keeping in touch with old friends, , Thought & prayers as he was a long time pal going back to his guard days in the ’70’s. Made a trip to PA. to move ’em back to Montana after they moved back east. They would come over every year for Christmas morning and take pictures when the kids were little, , play cards about every week, , ,You will be missed my friend.
Sharon Michel says
Larry and Shirley were very good friends. I worked with Shirley at Cooney. We did breakfast every other Sunday. We did Halloween every year at our house. I always made a big dinner and we took turns handing out candy. Larry you are now with Shirley and Brandy. I am going to miss you so much. Love You so much.
Lynda Reisbeck says
I met Larry and Shirley years ago; they were both a delight! When Larry called my office he was never sure if he was speaking with myself or my Daughter, so his favorite greeting was: ” Do I have Big BOO-BOO or little BOO-BOO. Whenever he would see me, he would greet me with big Boo-Boo. Always fun and interesting to talk with and Always comical ! You will be missed, my friend!
Dawn Lee says
Aww Larry…your with Shirley now! I’ve known you my whole life! And will remember you for the rest! Playing pinnacle with my parents…always there for Christmas!! And even the old wooden spoon from Shirley!! ( Inside joke)..you will be missed dearly..rest easy Larry!!
Shawna Donaldson says
I will miss Larry’s teasing and happy go lucky deamenor!
Cindy Baril says
Larry was a great Senior Companion volunteer. It was a honor & privilege to work with him. His clients loved his humor & kindness. He will be missed by all.
Joanne Homier says
Larry, from the time we met at Carroll College, I have never seen you without a smile. And we all know how much you loved hugs that brightened our days. The sky has a new bright star whining on us. I will miss you as my neighbor.
Sandy Owens says
Larry was a very kind man, and loving Senior Companion. He will be missed by all of us. Rest in peace Larry.