Lawrence (Larry) Heller, age 77, passed away Easter Sunday peacefully at home after a lengthy illness.
Larry was born October 31, 1941 to Vernon and Mary Heller. He grew up as one of four Heller boys on the west side, in the shadow of Mt Helena. Being a young man in the glory days of the 1950’s meant cruising to Gerties, drag racing in Belgrade, and hanging out on the gulch downtown. Larry settled down a bit when he joined the Army National Guard in 1958. He started a career as a mechanic, working at the Fort Harrison UTES. That career would last 31 years! Larry earned the nickname “Lightning” and it stuck. Larry was married in 1961, had two children, and later divorced. In 1975, he met and married the love of his life, Joann Greenup. They had 44 years of adventure and laughter together. Larry was a great storyteller, especially around the campfire. Some of his best times were hunting near York, and camping on the Little Blackfoot. His witticisms will be missed, he was truly a fun guy and entertained us all, especially the kids.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers Pat and Eddie. He is survived by his wife Joann, brother David (Diane) Heller, daughter Jackie (Scott) Smith, son Michael (Angela) Heller, grandchildren Amanda (Eric) Huberty, Kalli (Jake) Sharbono, Courtney Smith, Colton Smith, Tyler Heller, and one great granddaughter, Lily Smith. Special thanks to St Peters Hospice, Dr Bailey, and Mickey and Karissa.
A graveside service will be held 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 26th at Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St Peters Hospice, or the organization of your choice.
Service Schedule
Graveside Service
2:00 p.m.
Friday April 26, 2019
Resurrection Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Graveside Service
2:00 p.m.
Friday April 26, 2019
Resurrection Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
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Jim and Sally says
We are so sorry and very sad to hear of Larry’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you, now, and the days ahead. If we can do anything to help out, please let us know. Hugs!
Tracy and Harold Grove says
Joann and kids, im so sorry dad and didnt get out to see you guys. Larry was one of my favorite people. I just loved listening to his stories, both bs and the true ones. May he rest in peace.
Vanessa Tolson says
Joann, I am so sorry to hear of Larry’s passing; my thoughts and prayers are with you & your family.
Jere says
Dave and family – sorry for your loss. I didn’t know Larry personally, but he sounds like he added to everyone’s life that he was around. Like us, he was lucky to grow up in Helena in the 40s, 50s and 60s. It was an experience that will never be duplicated. Hoping that time will make things easier for all. Take care.
Sharon Sargeson says
Joann I was saddened to read about Larry’s passing. He was a fun guy and a great storyteller. My prayers are with you.
Kathleen says
Terry and Kathy Gloege
Joann so sorry for your loss, We have some of the best memories of Larry! There never was a
dull moment. May God be with you and your family.
Love Terry & Kathy
Steven Nicholls says
Mike and Family,
So sorry for your loss. Larry was one of a kind I really enjoyed drilling with him and have a lot of good memoirs and we had a lot of laughs. May he rest in Peace.
Mrs Funchess says
Dear Family
I’m sorry for your loss and I pray for your comfort. Please keep in mind that our Heavenly Father and God promises he will resurrect those who are sleeping in death. ( John 5:28,29) This means they will come back to life and we will see them again.
Until that day comes, look to Jehovah God for comfort ( 2 Corinthians 1:3,4) He will never fail you.
Mailyn Olson says
Joann, Jackie, Mike and Families,
I am sorry for your loss, I have lots of fun memories of the Heller family from time in York and staying at the house with Jackie. Holding you all up in my prayers.
Marilyn Yetter Olson
Don&Wilma Hurni says
so sorry for your loss larry was the best.