Laurence Paul "Larry" Wisch

Lifelong Chinook, Montana, resident, Laurence P. Wisch, 91, passed away October 29, 2025, at Northern Montana Care Center. He was born October 5, 1934, in Chinook to Eldor and Ruth Wisch. After graduating from CHS in 1952, Larry enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was stationed in San Diego. While in San Diego, he married Shirley Sargent (also a 1952 CHS graduate).
At the tender age of five, Larry began spending summers up north on the Snedecor ranch. His aunt and uncle kept him busy with never-ending ranch chores and teaching him about ranch life. Those years in the north country cultivated his love of the outdoors and way of life which led him back to the ranch in 1959. In 1969, he moved his family to town when he purchased the OK Tire Store and subsequently the Phillips 66 station and bulk plant. Delivering fuel all over the county kept him in the great outdoors.
Over the years, Larry was involved in almost every civic organization either as an officer or volunteer/member. He gave much of his time and efforts to the ALC board, cemetery board, and Blaine County fair board, among others. He was also a volunteer fireman; later becoming fire chief, a position he held for many years. Larry was instrumental in working to get the Eloam Cemetery cleaned up, fenced, and well maintained over the years. A labor of love dedicated to members of his family who are buried there.
In Larry's younger years, he enjoyed camping, yearly Missouri River float trips with "the guys", woodworking, and helping with many projects around town. As his health declined, he still managed to take on smaller woodworking projects, tinkering in his shop, and teaching himself how to cook. He was so proud of himself when he mastered instant mashed potatoes and eventually graduated to preparing soups and stews.
Although Larry was not a coffee drinker, he was a regular at the Senior Center men's morning coffee bunch. He'd drink his tea, enjoy the friends around him, and catch some news of the day. Also, for many, many years, Monday nights were reserved for poker playing. When it was his turn to host, quite a production was made to retrieve the not-so-convenient storage spot of the poker table, get it set up, move chairs, make sure there were ample appropriate beverages and snacks available, and of course make sure he had five one-dollar bills for the "high stakes" poker evening. He loved every minute of it!
When conversing with Larry, he usually had a story or two to share. He had plenty of knowledge of the people and history of our small town. His life touched many who knew him.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Shirley, and brother, Stanley. Surviving are his daughter, Kathy (Dave) Bafaro, who resides in Spokane and son, Jerry, who resides in Oregon. Grandchildren Shaun, Mike, and Amanda Bafaro and Lisa Wisch; and great grandchildren Brayden, Madelyn, Jaydn, Kaleb, Shaylynn, Michael Finch, Denver, Beau, and Mack.
A funeral service was held at 11:00 on Friday, November 7 at the American Lutheran Church followed by a graveside service and gathering of family and friends at the church.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the American Lutheran Church, Chinook Senior Center, Blaine County Ambulance, or another local organization of your choice.
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