Larry Wayne Bumgarner

CORVALLIS - Larry Wayne Bumgarner, surrounded by loved ones, passed away early Friday morning, July 9th, 2021 at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula. He always said he’d outlived his expiration date, as he was on dialysis for twelve years, far exceeding the average.

He was born in Hamilton on December 9th, 1941, to parents Merle Dean Bumgarner, and Katherine Isabelle Knez. He attended Corvallis High School before joining the Navy in 1960. Through some twist and turns, he finally met the love of his life, Mary Jane Nielsen. They were married in Idaho on November 20th, 1963. While in the Navy he obtained the rank of ENT3, as a Nuclear Reactor Operator on the carrier USS Enterprise. After being honorably discharged he began a career of being a Logger, Mill Worker, Beautician, Carpenter and finally Truck Driver. It might be easier to simply say that he was a “Jack of All Trades, Master of Some”.

He has returned to the welcome of his father and mother Merle and Katy, and brother Jack. They took seriously the admonition of going forth and replenishing the earth. Larry is survived by his wife, Mary Jane; brother, Ronnie; children, Valerie Lynn, Timothy Wayne, Larry Dean, Daniel Wade, Derek James, Heather Dawn and Thaddeus Allen; and numerous grandchildren.

We thought we knew the nature of the man, however it wasn’t until he faced all of the adversity of his poor health and complications to Diabetes that we really learned what kind of man he was. He was funny, always with a quick joke at hand to help lift the spirits of those that were around him. He made those around him comfortable with his wit and infectious spirit.

Visitation will be held at the Corvallis Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints on Friday, July 16, 2021 at 10:00 am with the funeral service following at 11:00 am, also at the Corvallis LDS Church. After the services, internment will be at the Hamilton Riverview Cemetery. Friends and family are welcomed to a luncheon back at the Corvallis LDS Church to reminisce and celebrate the life of a great family man. Pallbearers will be his grandchildren.  

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