Larry Oscar Parvey

December 25, 1951 – April 5, 2025

Larry Oscar Parvey, 73, passed away surrounded by family and loved ones in Tooele, Utah, on April 5, 2025. He was born on December 25, 1951, in Rolla, North Dakota, the first of five children raised on the family farm in Sarles. Larry’s love for family, nature, and service to others were central traits throughout his life.

Larry graduated from Border Central High School in Calvin, North Dakota, in 1970, and attended college at Mayville State University, the University of North Dakota, and Lake Region State College. He married Patricia Hertzell of Calvin, North Dakota, in 1972. They were married for more than 20 years and raised three daughters: Amy, Alison, and Laura.

In the early years of their marriage, Larry worked in insurance for the State Bank of Munich in North Dakota. His commitment to his community was evident through his volunteer work with the ambulance service and his role as a referee for basketball and umpire for baseball games.

In 1988, the family moved from the flatlands of North Dakota to the mountains of Dillon, Montana. Larry furthered his education at Western Montana College, earning a degree in secondary education in 1990. He cherished his time at Western Montana College and volunteered filming the football team. He proudly wore Western Montana College alumni attire throughout his life. Larry went on to teach high school government, history, and economics. He also coached basketball, baseball, volleyball, and football at schools in New Plymouth, Idaho, and Drake, North Dakota.

Larry enjoyed many simple pleasures, including the song “Country Roads” by John Denver — “Country roads, take me home, to the place I belong.” Larry found peace and joy in long drives down dirt country roads, exploring the prairies and mountains. These roads, much like the song, led him to the places and memories he cherished most. He loved exploring ghost towns, buffalo jumps, and historical sites, always with a sense of reverence for the past. Larry’s strong faith in the Lord and his deep connection to family and friends were guiding forces in his life.

He enjoyed camping, going to the lake, paddling in a canoe, and watching sports—especially when his grandkids were competing. Larry was an avid follower of the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Twins, always keeping track of their seasons. His love for life extended to simple pleasures like a cold Coca-Cola and a deep pride in his Finnish heritage.

Larry is survived by his daughters: Amy (Kevin) Christen, Alison (Paul) Lovaas, and Laura (John) Parvey-Connors; his grandchildren: Brandi Lovaas, Lilly (Brandon) Christen, Taylor Lovaas, Haddie Christen, Emma Lovaas, Everson Connors, Bridget Lovaas, Landon Lovaas, and Corrick Connors; two brothers: Rodney (Carol) Parvey and Dennis (Renae) Parvey; one sister: Jan (Ray) Stenmoen; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Lillian Parvey, and his brother, Dean Parvey.

Larry’s memory will live on through the many lives he touched. His legacy of kindness, love, and service to others will never be forgotten. Those who cared for him in his final years acknowledged his determination, strong work ethic, and gratitude. He fought until the very end.

Private family services are planned for a later date.