Larry Wilson

Larry Wilson

Larry Wilson Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers from Apr. 12 to Apr. 14, 2013.
LARRY WILSON Beloved Father, Grandfather and Great-Grandfather Larry Wilson, passed away peacefully in his daughter's home, surrounded by family after complications due to a stroke suffered in 2009. He was 83. Born in Louisville, Ky. in 1930, Larry grew up in Minneapolis, MN. He graduated from St Thomas Academy. He was fond of telling people he was at the bottom of the class, but in fact he was only second to last. In 1949, he graduated from the University of Minnesota and married Ann Nugent with whom he had eight children. Larry taught high school English and Drama in Sheldon, Iowa and sold shoes at JC Penny in Minneapolis before accepting a position as a salesman for the New England Life Insurance Company. He quickly rose to become one of their top young salesmen. He was elected to the prestigious "Million Dollar Roundtable", and became, at twenty-four, the youngest member in their history to ever achieve that goal. A spirited entrepreneur at heart, his success in sales led to speaking engagements all over the world and soon he left New England Life and began what would become his life long journey, inspiring others to "Become the Best that they could Be." While he launched this new career, he wrote speeches while listening to Judy Garland, performing them for his kids. All the kids knew every story and every joke by heart by the time they were teens. In his spare time he played 'razzle-dazzle" touch football and hockey with his kids and directed them in homemade musicals. In 1964, he formed Wilson Learning Corporation. Wilson Learning designed sales training, management training, customer service and a multitude of other programs for companies all over the world. Larry created Wilson Learning based on the idea that people should strive for both performance and fulfillment. He was a rebel against corporate conformity and hierarchy, once giving a speech called, "Make Love Not Sales!" He loved challenging the thinking of corporate leaders. 48 years later that legacy is still going strong, with offices all over the world. In 1978, Wilson Learning was the second largest training company in the world, employing hundreds of individuals worldwide, and inspiring thousands. In 1981, Larry sold Wilson Learning. It was widely assumed that he would retire and enjoy his growing family of grandchildren, but at only 51 years old retirement was far from his thinking. He moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico and launched two new companies. The first was Interactive Technologies; one of the first companies to explore the possibilities of computer based learning. The second company was Pecos River Learning Corporation. Pecos River Ranch in Ilfield, New Mexico was a conference center, a retreat and home to the Pecos River Learning Center. Pecos River furthered Larry's vision to help companies everywhere use their creativity and courage to help create a better world. The Pecos River Learning Center, along with offices in Santa Fe, employed over 100 people in New Mexico and hundreds more worldwide. A family business, all six of his children and their partners participated in the growth, the vision, and development of the company. During this same time, Larry wrote four books, two of them, Changing the Game and Play to Win! were national business best sellers. Yet, ever the entrepreneur, Larry sold Pecos River in 1992 but continued his work in helping corporations re-invent themselves to face the challenges of the coming century. He was a sought after consultant and speaker for some of the largest and most prestigious companies in the world. Larry was preceded in death by both of his parents, Herschel L. Wilson, and Ellen Wilson, his sister Betty Watermolen, a daughter Mary Kate Wilson, and a son Michael Wilson. He is survived by his ex-wife Ann Nugent Wilson, mother of his six children. He is also survived by his eleven grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren; Hersch and Laurie (Edwards) Wilson, (Brynne, Sully) Bonnie Wilson, (Corey, Christopher, and Casey) and Larry Smith, George and Susan (Wilson) Robinson, (Brandon, Meghan, Katie) Patricia Wilson and Chip Woods, (Morgan) Greg and Margaret (Wilson) Hesch, (Emily, Hailie) Joseph Wilson and Linda Pedelty. A memorial celebration will be held at The Basilica of St. Mary's, located on Hennepin Avenue between 16th and 17th Streets in downtown Minneapolis, MN at 11:00AM on Friday, April 26th. A Senior Fellow at The University of Minnesota, in lieu of flowers, Larry asked that memorials be directed to the: LARRY WILSON ENDOWMENT IN EDUCATION FUND, # 3486, in care of; The University of Minnesota Foundation, 200 SE Oak Street, Suite 500, Minneapolis, MN 55455.

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Sign Larry Wilson's Guest Book

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September 1, 2024

George Joseph Ferragut posted to the memorial.

April 5, 2022

Dale Moss posted to the memorial.

April 5, 2019

Jim Tunney posted to the memorial.

George Joseph Ferragut

September 1, 2024

Met Larry in Santa Fe in 1986 ! Remember him like it was yesterday!

Dale Moss

April 5, 2022

Not a week goes by without me considering "playing to win" and thinking of my good friend Larry. Going as far as I can with all I have...thank you Larry

Jim Tunney

April 5, 2019

Larry was not only a gifted speaker who could inspire an audience with content, but he did it with "Wilson Humor" that was truly his. He was a mentor as well as my friend. My life was better because of our friendship. Jim Tunney CPAE and NFL Referee

dale moss

April 5, 2019

Time passes but the memory of Larry remains as vibrant as ever in my mind. His mantra of 'playing to win' is now incorporated in my DNA and if for just that I would be eternally grateful...but there was more, much more.

Jay Lutsky

December 28, 2013

Larry Wilson gave a two day seminar at United Bank of Denver, now Wells Fargo, in 1970. It changed my life and gave me skills that I use to this day. He was a leader and dynamic speaker and his focus was on relationship and mutually discovering the best way to provide a service and make life better for everyone. I've thought of him many times over the years and am sorry to hear of his death, active to the very end. Rest in Peace Larry, I'll never be able to thank you enough.

James Carter

November 19, 2013

“A true hero has some power to make us a gift of a larger life.
Larry gave this gift to thousands, including me.

Lew Kurtzman

September 10, 2013

I can truly say that Larry inspired me more than anyone throughout my career, prompting me to start my own training company founded on many of his principles and values. Whenever we were together, I felt like I was the only person in the room. My heart goes out to Larry's family for losing one of the best teachers of all time..

John Hohn

July 16, 2013

Larry was easily the most inspirational an dynamic man I have ever met. The years I spent working with him were a turning point in my life.

Dr. Lynne Garnett

July 6, 2013

Larry, you intelligence, humor and brilliance are your legacy. I am honored to have been able to learn from you and work with you.

Dr. Garnett

Bill Murray

April 30, 2013

No one, not even family had more of an impact on the course of my life than Larry did. Because of his teachings, I became a better salesperson, a better friend, a better father and a better husband. I will always remember him.

April 26, 2013

I had the good fortune to know and work with Larry outside of Santa Fe. What a contribution he made to my life and so many others. I will miss him, but his teachings live in my heart.
Blessings,

Susan Luiz Santa Fe

Roxanne Emmerich

April 26, 2013

Larry can only be described as "love on wheels"--he made everyone feel better whenever he entered the room. Our profession will forever be impacted by the standard of caring and professionalism he set.

Luis Collazo

April 26, 2013

Larry, thank you for being my profound source of inspiration in life and work. All my accomplishments since 1980, I owe to you. Luis Collazo from Puerto Rico.

Tony Molnar

April 25, 2013

My sincere condolences to the entire Wilon Family.

As the John Wiley liason to Wilson Learning I had the privelege to meet and work with Larry on numerous occassions at he ranch. I'll never forget the first walking "exercise" where Larry came looking for me while I was looking for him.

A great relationship ensued and I have always been proud to have had the opportunity to spend time with him.

It is a sad day.

jonathan golding

April 25, 2013

Stop, Challenge, and Choose.
I want to acknowledge the passing of a most amazing man who as a result of an all too brief professional engagement has resulted in a profound influence on my, and I suspect hundreds of other's lives over the past 25+ years.
Larry Wilson and what he created at the Pecos River Learning Center outside of Santa Fe was truly a watershed moment for bringing experiential learning, personal growth, and humanistic insights into the world of business. Nobody did it better and the shadow that Larry cast still has no boundaries. Playing to Win (vs. not to lose) and Choosing Growth over Fear indeed!

Not to mention, the Pecos programs was where i was introduced to "Its In Every One of Us".
Thank you Larry Wilson - with much appreciation, gratitude and love.

Michael and Suzy Riley

April 25, 2013

Larry Wilson was one of the most influential people and mentors in our lives and our careers. We had so many meaningful learning experiences with Larry at Wilson Learning, Pecos River and with Larry as a speaker and consultant. He was so incredibly generous, a life long learner, a can-do spirit, & so passionate on helping others to succeed. Whenever we were with him we always had generative and meaningful conversations. He loved to laugh and share stories. He loved to learn new things including technology, and was always sharing about the newest gadgets. He fully loved life and loved people. Our lives are truly blessed and enriched having known him. We are saddened by his passing but celebrate his life because of what a difference he made in our lives and so many others.

Michael Miller

April 23, 2013

Friends at Northland College are remembering Larry. His contributions to our outdoor education program and course were and remain very important. Our thoughts and prayers to friends and family.

Susan Kuhlman

April 22, 2013

I had the privilege of getting to know Larry and his family in 2010 when his brother Jim was ADAMANT that I meet his brother Larry Wilson. I am forever grateful for that introduction and the journey that began on that day. Please know all of your friends and family in LifeVantage are so grateful for our time with Larry - and continuing the greatness he set in motion.

Jim Tunney

April 22, 2013

To the family of my long time friend, Larry--While our paths didn't cross as often as I wished, everytime we met it was like continuing the last conversation without even taking a deep breath! He was a mentor as well as a friend. I shall miss him!

Patty Sachs Meshbesher

April 21, 2013

I met Larry back before Larry Wilson Corp...when he was wowing the insurance world. He hired me and my partner, Kelly to play music at his "last day" of a training session--a little celebration he planned for his trainees.
After years of friendship I attended his seminars and presentations for great inspiration.
The kids might remember the phone booth I gave him for his teenagers.
He was who loved his family, to laugh, learn and teach. I know his spirit is in every one of your days, in many ways.
My sincerest condolences to the family.

Brad Lashbrook

April 20, 2013

It is with sadness that I learned of the death of Larry Wilson, but with a sense of gladness knowing of the influence on the minds and hearts of the many who joined with him at WLC. He was a man not to be humbled by circumstance.

Joe Rassulo

April 18, 2013

To Larry, wherever you're smiling! Bonnie & Anne might remember me. Larry hired me right out of the Guthrie Theatre in the early 70s to help create his Video Training Model and, without knowing it, was the catalyst fo my filmmaking career. My memories are only wonderful ones of Larry, our trips together and our incredible conversations. It was with great sadness that I learned of his passing. You inspired me those many years ago and I still thank you from the bottom of my heart. My sympathy goes out to the Family.

Dan Chabot

April 16, 2013

My buddy and Partner was a big part of my life

April 16, 2013

What incredible experiences we had together during the Wilson Learning/Pecos years - fun (as Mickey would have wanted), stimulating, creative, energetic and caring. I loved all of our time together in trainings or in creating curriculum. No one could ever take so many ideas from so many different sources and put them together in such a unique and learner-friendly manner. It was a delight, and privilege to share them with so many different audiences around the world. I treasure it all with such fond memories. I miss you being present and send my love to all of your family. Carol (Fletcher) Clark

Happy Trails until we meet again.

Mike Cuffe

April 16, 2013

To Larry's Family: I cannot express my feeling of loss of your father. I loved him dearly, he was a great mentor, friend, and boss. I will always remember sitting with him creating PTW at the ranch. And what a great 4th birthday party we had for him at Pecos. Inhaling helium and talking like the mouse. Racing tricycles. And I will never forget our annual January meeting where he threatened to send us home after our primal screening session yelling into the masa and keeping him up late that evening. But most of all I will miss his smile, and laughter. I have lost a great friend who I loved! Mike

April 15, 2013

Larry I appreciate all the inspiration you gave to me, your thought leadership, your innovative mind and good heart. Although I worked at Wilson Learning after the WL golden years, I got to experience the legacy of what inside out tranformation could be for people and of course to have fun while you work with that Mickey Mouse watch. My sincere condolences to family. Respectfully, Jack Frangipane

Joyce Jappelle

April 15, 2013

I joined Wilson Learning in 1989 and it was clear from the outset that this community would change my life. Larry's influence reached far and wide. His vision and beliefs in the "world of abundance" affected my life, thoughts and actions. He will be remembered and missed by many people whose lives are more vibrant because of his commitment, inspiration and belief in making a difference.

Bill Gurnon

April 15, 2013

Larry,
You completely changed how I think about work (and life). Your inspiration and example pointed the way to being the best that I can be. I'm grateful for the shift you engendered in my life. Thank you and bless you.

Mark Vaughan

April 15, 2013

Larry and Wilson Learning changed my career and gave selling meaning. this goes back to 1975. Thank you Larry.

Kimala Bushbaum Kai

April 14, 2013

Thanks Larry for the light and laughter and inspiration you so easily shared with all of us. Your words and presence invited me to feel more self-empowered and capable to move myself forward in my life.
My love and blessings to all the family.

April 13, 2013

In 1969, when I joined LWC (Larry Wilson Corporation back then), little did I know what an enjoyable and extraordinary experience it would be.
Larry, you left each of us with wonderful memories and life-changing lessons.
Hersh, Bonnie, Susie, Patty & Peggy,and Joe ... you were blessed with a truly remarkable Dad!
Love, Barbara T.

Larry's Louisville Relatives

Dennis Johnson

April 13, 2013

Larry was a true visionary and wonderful business trainer. I value my time spent in Eden Prairie and Pecos River many years ago. I'm also proud to be related to Larry and the wonderful Wilson family. As you impressed upon me, Larry, "Go with the flow. Do not fight the current." God-speed on your eternal journey.

Joseph Tapia

April 13, 2013

Joey, Bonnie and the rest of Larry's children. I was lycky to meet all of you in Santa Fe. We could never figure out Larry's prediliction for newer model blondes! Love you all.

Don Thoren

April 13, 2013

A professional mentor and creative thinking role model

Anthony Pacifico

April 13, 2013

Larry Wilson was such a tremendous influence on me and the way I live my life. I will forever be grateful for his knowledge, wisdom and impact.

Jim Cathcart

April 13, 2013

I will always remember the positive imprints Larry Wilson left in my life. He and I were admirers of Bill Gove, and Bill and I were admirers of Larry. Rest easy my friend, thanks for all you gave us.

National Sales Meeting in Chicago 2009

Bob Davis

April 13, 2013

In 1987 (could be off a year) I attended a National Society of Sales Execs meeting in Arizona. Larry Wilson was the keynote speaker. I watched as he spoke of change, hope and transformation. Several hundred people were glued to their seats transfixed by this man. I was one one of them. As I watched Larry, I said, "That's what I want to do!" That visioning in 1987 while watching Larry led me to a 22 year career with Wilson Learning. That vision enabled by Larry has put me on stage in front of as many as 600 people delivering transformative messages in the Americas and Europe. I don't pretend to be Larry Wilson, I am a truck driver's son who is living a dream inspired by a great man. With love and great affection for a person who enabled me to go places I could not have imagined as a young man.

Bob Davis, McCourt Associates, A Wilson Learning Business Partner

Frank Swiatek

April 13, 2013

Larry and Bill Gove spoke at Kleinhans Music Hall in Buffalo,NY...it jumpstarted my speaking career.

I bought Larry's record (yes, record!) "On Target with People" and I have followed him and his creative mind for the next 50 years.

Spending time with Larry and Bill at Bill's speaking workshop for a weekend was a career highlight for me.

Tracey Sheehan

April 12, 2013

It is a large task to send condolences to the family of Larry Wilson. His reach extended so far and changed the lives of so many. No time in my long career was as transformative and important than the time spent at Wilson Learning and with its people. I owe Larry Wilson my thanks and admiration. I wish him a wonderful afterlife. To Herschel and the rest of the Wilsons, my deepest sympathies for your personal loss and my heartfelt thanks for sharing Larry with the rest of us.

Lonnie Dehn Sievert

April 12, 2013

I started with Wilson Learning when I was 22 and anxious to learn! Larry and Bill Ramsey were huge mentors in my life. Larry motivated everyone to grow and to help the company grow. I started with 37 employees and left 9 years later to raise my family, there were 250 employees! He touched so many lives and we are all grateful for it. We remember our Cayman vacations, our Mickey Mouse watches that made work fun! We all got to know Larrys wonderful family!

He was one of a kind and I love him for all that he did to encourage us to live outside of our comfort zone! Thank you all (Wilson family) for the fond memories and he will live on in our hearts forever!!

dale moss

April 12, 2013

Deepest condolences to all the Wilson family. There are no words to assuage the pain of this loss. However you should know that Larry lived his life helping people in a profound way to live their life "going as far as they could with all that they have". He was a great man, a wonderful counselor and my friend. I will miss him but his message lives with me forever.
God Bless

dale moss

April 12, 2013

Larry opened so many doors for me, the greatest being his own heart. Had it not been for him we would have never discovered the jewel that is Santa Fe, which we explored together, along with all the wonderful people at ITG. Those friendships endure, as does our love for the city. Larry taught me some very deep truths about spirituality. He is a part of us all.

Velma Lashbrook

April 12, 2013

Few people have made such a positive difference in as many lives as Larry has. Those who had the privilege to work with him and those who benefited from his life's work are better and happier because of the lessons he taught us.

He was a positive psychologist long before the term was coined. He saw the best in people, made them feel valued, and leveraged their talents to serve the common good.

He touched us, and we have grown.

April 11, 2013

With Sympathy and Love to all the Wilson Family and Friends. Larry and Pecos River changed my life and helped me to a Path that is deeply fulfilling. He will always be remembered....
Russ Watkins

Timmi Bushbaum Sellers

April 11, 2013

Many of us followed Larry down that Old Santa Fe Trail; what an adventure it was. I loved Larry's generosity and enthusiasm. Our thoughts are with his whole family around the world.

April 11, 2013

To all the Wilsons -

How I remember the many wonderful times that our families had together. To this day, I remember my costume for the very first Schooner Days parade. Larry lit up a room. May your memories light up your days as you grieve his absence.

With much love,

Laurie Bushbaum

April 11, 2013

Larry was a very dear friend and a real talent. I was one of his early investors and truly enjoyed watching him grow his companies. He will be missed. George Fox

Shirley Schlingman

April 11, 2013

One of the happiest times in my life. Learning truly is fun when you work in Camelot!!!!! Thank you Larry - - - RIP Shirley

Alllan Lotsberg

April 11, 2013

As a course instructor for many years,Larry and I would talk at length about Wilson Learning and it's possitive affect on sales and business management. We referred to the company center in Eden Prairie, with all it's possitive attitude and energy, our Camelot... and indeed it was... "for there was simply not, a more congenial spot for happily ever-atering than here in Camelot. Thank you King (Larry)Arthur.
With love and affection Allan Lotsberg

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September 1, 2024

George Joseph Ferragut posted to the memorial.

April 5, 2022

Dale Moss posted to the memorial.

April 5, 2019

Jim Tunney posted to the memorial.