Larry E. Pitts
Larry E. Pitts, 52, of Polson, went to be with Jesus on Monday, November 9, 2009 at St. Luke Community Hospital in Ronan surrounded by his loving family.
Larry was born on September 29, 1957 in Missoula, MT, son of Eugene and Faye Oehrling Pitts of Dixon, MT. Larry grew up in Dixon and graduated from Dixon High School as the class Valedictorian in 1975. He then attended the University of Montana and the East-West College of Massage Therapy in Portland, OR. He was also an enrolled member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.
In 1979, Larry married Ginger Olson and they lived in Missoula, Portland, and then later moved back to the Mission Valley at which time he opened a massage practice in Polson, “Massage for Health”.
At age 12, Larry was diagnosed with diabetes and in 1991 received a kidney transplant in which his sister, KoLynn, gladly donated hers. Health was important to Larry and that same year, he went to work for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal Health Department as a community health representative. He enjoyed this position as it allowed him to go into people’s homes to coach them in healthier living. Larry eventually became a fitness specialist at the Ronan and St. Ignatius Tribal Health fitness facilities. He hosted the PBS TV program, “Good Medicine” for many years and loved working with the media crew at SKC. It was another good outlet to broadcast his zany personality. He was also an enthusiastic member of the Mission Valley Power board, building wonderful relationships with other board members.
Larry attended the CMA Church in Polson and gave his life to the Lord there in 1989. He loved playing the congos with the CMA worship team, and for the past six years at the New Life Christian Center. From a young age Larry enjoyed sports and became an MOA official for basketball while he was in college. He also refereed NCAA Women’s College Basketball. Always athletic, he excelled at multiple sports with the proud support of his parents. He passed on his enthusiasm for sports to his children and loved both coaching, and watching his children compete. Other parents will attest to the fact that Larry loved bragging about his kids, and was quick to work them into his conversations.
Larry loved people and people loved Larry. He was a friend to everyone and was always ready to listen and encourage all who came to him. Friends knew that they could call him at any time, day or night, and reach a listening ear and loving advice. He adored this community, and poured his life out for his native brothers and sisters.
A beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend, Larry was not easily overlooked and his presence lit up a room. His constant encouragement and selfless love for others has impacted the lives of many. He lived a life of integrity in his walk with the Lord, and his actions corresponded with his passionate convictions. Larry claimed that Philippians 4:13 was his life-verse, and he knew that in Christ’s strength, he could do absolutely anything. Though always small in stature, his native brothers affectionately referred to him as “little big-man”. He possessed a fun and crazy sense of humor, which shone through his life, despite the circumstances.
Survivors include his loving wife, Ginger Pitts of Polson; daughter, Whitney Pitts of Polson and Spokane, WA; son, Taylor Pitts of Polson; parents Gene & Faye Pitts of Dixon, two sisters, Lettie (John) Neuman of Missoula, and KoLynn (Paul) Sinclair of Yakima, WA; two brothers, Garry (Christine) Pitts of Polson, and Terry (Crystal) Pitts of Dixon; 5 sisters-in-law, Carolyn Cole of Polson, Linda (Kendall) Dupuis of Polson, Amy (Dan) Toelke of Ronan, Bonnie (Dan) Horton of Bellevue, WA, and Melody (Bob) Thiel of Polson; a brother-in-law, Matt (Chiko) Olson of Helena, MT; mother-in-law, Lou (Jim) Duford of Polson; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Visitation for friends and family will be held on Thursday, November 12, 2009 from 12 – 7 PM at the Grogan Funeral Home, 101 Sixth Ave. E., Polson. A memorial service for Larry will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2009, 1:00 PM at the Linderman Gymnasium in Polson with Pastor Shawn Madsen officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations in Larry’s name to Youth With a Mission (YWAM) – New Wave, at 40972 Farm Rd., Polson, MT 59860.
The family would like to thank Dr. Meg Eddy, Dr. Ed. Vizcarra, and Dr. Paul Gochis, as well as the wonderful staff at St. Luke Community Hospital for their loving and attentive care. He considered all of you to be friends.
Messages of condolence may be expressed to the family online at www.groganfuneralhome.com. The Grogan Funeral Home and Crematory, Polson is honored to assist Larry’s family.
Larry touched us all in many ways. Even through the pain, he seemed to always have a smile and a sense of humor. My wife and I asked Eric to never forget all of the valuable advice Larry had offered him. It’s funny how kids are. My 14 year old son immediately responded with a moment forever etched in his mind. He had developed the bad habit of running down the court during transition, with his back to the ball. Larry told Eric, if he saw him doing that again, he would shoot him in the butt with a BB gun. Amazingly the bad habit disappeared. Larry had a special way of “getting through” to our boys. We are very thankful for the time he spent coaching and advising. Larry’s spirit will live on eternally in our hearts and minds. Please accept our condolences for your loss.
My condolences go out to the entire Pitts family. Larry will be greatly missed! He was such an inspiration to everyone he crossed paths with, and was such an asset to the tribes, reservation and SKC families! You are all in our prayers, and hearts. Take care and hang onto all those funny things he couldn’t help but say, the words of wisdom, and stories he shared. He will be deeply missed and he was loved by so many people in the communities! Your whole family are great people. Take care.
MaryRose Morigeau & family
Larry was a role model and took so much pride in helping people. I was an athlete at Polson High School who grew up with out a father. Larry not only had the same first name as my father but he was the closest thing I ever had to one. While growing up poor and having to do without Larry always gave me the confidence to believe that I could become a Professional Golfer. The most important thing he did was introduce me to God and the rewards of living life for other people and not yourself. The one thing he always told me was to date that Mckethen girl. Now that Jamie and are are married for over 15 years and have 2 beautiful little girls I can honestly say we could never have lived this type of life without the influence of larry at such an important time. Larry touched many people and no matter his health was always full of spirit and energy. God Bless you Ginger & Family
I will miss my uncle Larry very much. He always understood me when others didn’t. I love you uncle Larry, rest in peace
It has been such an honor and priviledge to have known and worked with Larry. He always had a positive outlook and a strong Faith in the Lord. He was indeed a role model that we all should emulate in our work with all people. I know he is in a place he believed in and is at last at peace. I bet he has already given the Lord a wonderful relaxing massage!! Love and prayers to Larry’s wonderful family. Dorene & John Vallee
Larry was such an awesome man! I had the great pleasure of working for him at Let’s Travel. My thoughts and prayers are with Ginger and the kids. Larry will be missed.
Larry’s infectious shining smile, enthusiastic vibrant voice, and never ending energy and love for life is a true inspiration for all that have had the honor to have walk a moment beside him on this life journey. We miss him greatly.
Such a great spirit in such a tiny package, we truely loved him and will miss him. Our condolences to Ginger, Whitney, Taylor and the entire Pitts family.
Larry was a giant among men. He was such an awsome inspiration to everyone. We will really miss him.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Tom & Gloria Haynes
Larry was and still is an awesome individual. He touched so many lives in so many ways and will be greatly missed and remembered. His smile and laughter was not easily forgotten. My prayers and thought are with the whole family.
Demian and Wendy Swab and family
What a blessing Larry was to all of us that his life touched. I was truly amazed everytime I saw him, what a positive attitude he had even with all of his physical afflictions. Larry had one of the largest hearts God ever handed out, and our Heavenly Father must be completely satisfied with the work that Larry did here on Earth. May all of you continue to live your lives in the glow Larry has left behind…..that of a TRUE CHRISTIAN….and a very good human being. Blessings to all of you, and lots of love. Deb and Jack May
Dear Ginger and Family,
Like most people I loved Larry. I had a special relationship with him and he was always so much fun and so inspirational to be around. I will think of him often, but I know he has one of the highest sots in Heaven. He truly lived God’s way. Irene Lake
I am so sorry to be out of state because Larry was my beloved friend and inspiration. He has always been there for me, especially in 2001 when I was in Oklahoma doing chemo. Larry would call every few nights with a little prayer, a funny joke, and tips for better health care. Some years ago, he used to come to the offices and give us back rubs. I cannot express how much his sensitivity and thoughtfulness meant to so many people. Larry loved his family and his friends. He also made it to every sports event possible.
Larry will be so missed but I know what terrible pain he’s had to endure. God gave him more life than was expected and he made good use of every minute.
Love and so long for now, my pal. Evelyn Stevenson
Ginger and Family,
Everyone loved Larry in the office and he was such a joy. His smile always lightened up our day. Sympathy from us and our staff to your family.
Philip A Roper, MD, W. Stan Wilson, MD and staff (Missoula)
I don’t know if you will remember me or not but I was blessed to have been at CMA in Polson with all of you when Larry was on the worship team. He was such an inspiration and will be truly missed by the entire community. My heart goes out to you and I pray that all the wonderful memories you have will help to heal your sorrow.
I don’t know if you will remember me or not but I was blessed to have been at CMA in Polson with all of you when Larry was on the worship team. He was such an inspiration and will be truly missed by the entire community. My heart goes out to you and I pray that all the wonderful memories you have will help to heal your sorrow.
Darleen Allen
To Larry’s parents and family:
I’ve watched the laughter and fun Larry brought to many peoples lives. I’m sorry for your loss.
Thinking of Larry and his family. He was someone that when you first met him, you were left with a lasting impression. God Bless You Larry as I am sure you are now in a place free of that pyshical pain. Your uplifting attitude was always infectious with us and you will always be remembered by many as a great man.
Ed and Conrad Todd
Ginger, Whitney, and Taylor,
Our prayers are with you all. I know that Larry is walking with the Lord and is pain free. He will always be at your sides and in your hearts. God Bless
Tracy, Greg, Whitney and Nic.
My sweet, crazy, wonderful Cousin Larry! Big Hugs to your folks, bothers, and sisters. You were always such a stinker and tease—-it was fun having you as a cousin when we were kids. I loved watching all the mischief you got into AND watching how you made life so fun for all around you. I’m really glad my kids and husband were able to spend time with you and your family. (It was after the big scare of the bat bite!) Even though you all had spent hours and hours in the hospital making sure you’d not contracted rabies, you still opened up your home to us and gave us the gift of time and family—-The Pitts Way, for sure. We have wonderful memories of that evening and your blessed and contagious sense of humor.
Ginger—you are so beautiful. Larry’s (and my) grandma Jennie adored you and said you were perfect for Larry——you and Larry blessed so many others by your loving union. What a wonderful, patient, wonderful, devoted wife you were to Larry.
May you all get a good night’s sleep, knowing you were loved by a remarkable man……my sweet cousin.
teresa
Granite Bay, near Sacramento, California
I am so sorry for your loss.
I keep you all in my heart.
Ginger, Whitney, Taylor and the entire Pitts Family, our deepest condolences. Cousins, we are so saddened to hear of your loss. Rest in peace Larry.
Steve Heitmiller
Dearest Ginger, Whitney and Taylor:
We know it isn’t politically correct, but the truth is that Larry was always our favorite of the “Five Little Pitts”. We loved them all and still do, but there was something of a, “scamp” about Larry. If he was every ones idea of happiness here on earth, just imagine the uproar in heaven when he starts organizing sporting events. When Aunt Nena and I met beautiful Whitney in 07 and then had an after noon with our nephew, we both felt we were in the presence of a truly spiritual person. To be related to him was on of his aunts greatest pleasures and I, as the adopted uncle, also loved him dearly. I know I speak for his departed uncle Don as well as he and I often reminisced about your husband and father. May the majesty of the Mission Range bestow it’s blessing on your family
Aloha nui loa anela.
Larry was a gentleman among men. I remember him well from our college days, we had some of the same pals to hang with. He was a true mentor to his fellow believing brothers and sisters. I cherish many conversations, remember stories of him from my Dad golfing with him. I know it was harder and harder for him to stay on earth with his family and friends , hard to leave you all but, he will be a welcome companion again. A significant influence for so many of us. Very best wishes to you family, you friends. Thanks so much Lord, for letting me know Larry.
Dear Ginger, Whitney, and Taylor,
Please know that we are praying for your peace in this most difficult time. You are truly in our thoughts and prayers, as Larry will always be in our fond memories.
Sincerely,
Dianne Courage
Dearest Ginger, Whitney and Taylor,
The joy of knowing your beloved Husband/Dad was that he was a Lover of Jesus. I was in awe of the goodness and kindness that Larry spread so generously. My arms are reaching out to you…all the way from Japan.
Much love,
Anita
Even on the most cloudy days in Montana, when I would bump into Larry, it never failed; the Sun would begin to shine. Larry had a way of making everyone feel Important! His selfless charm was always expressed in concern for others even on days when Larry was in rough shape from his illness.
Larry personally pulled my mother from despair with the loss of my father, eventually leading her to a healthier lifestyle with his encouragement.
Our world was made a better place by Larry Pitts. I will miss him dearly.
I met Larry at baseball games our sons played in together. It was always a pleasure seeing and talking to him. While building a house in Charlo I developed a stiff neck. After a couple weeks, it was causing my whole body to lock up. At a baseball game in Ronan, Larry told me to stop by his office early tomorrow morning. After a half hour massage, I walked out with no pain. Larry, you are an absolutely unforgetable person. We really appreciate you show “Good Medicine” and your excellent common sense advice. My family and I both feel somehow wiser and wealthier for knowing you. We will never forget you. Thank you Kindly!
We are deeply saddened by your loss. Although its difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, May looking back in memory help comfort you in the days ahead.
Larry will be truly missed by everyone who knew him. May your family take comfort in knowing an angel is now watching over you.
Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.
We were very sad to read of Larry’s passing. May his always present smile and the countless wonderful memories help all of you in his family during this difficult time.
As many people have already stated, he was an unforgettable human being and we are all blessed to have been able to have known him as a friend.
From the first time I met him – refereeing the teenage star for Dixon on the basketball court (drinking orange juice during timeouts for the diabetes) – to the last time I saw him – in his wheelchair at courtside in Polson – he never changed. If you were in his presence, you were his focus and he wanted to visit to find out how you were doing. It was never about Larry.
The Mission Valley and beyond will forever be touched by his caring. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all in the Pitts’ families.
Mary & Rick Borden
Dear Pitts Family,
My sincere condolences to all of you on Larry’s passing. His was a life well lived and I know he was deeply loved. I wish you comfort and peace.
Warm Regards,
Shari Johnson
Columbia Falls
larry was a good man who touched the lives of many
Faye, Gene & Kids, Just wanted to let you know we’re thinking of you all. God be with you & you’re in our thoughts & prayers, Nancy & Rodney Schall, Numa Caye
Larry will be missed. We will remember his jokes and laughter all the time. I am very sorry for your loss.
GOD BLESS THE WHOLE FAMILY
Ginger & Family, It is with a heavy heart that I learn of Larry’s passing. He was and will remain an inspiration to us all with his gallant walk through life. Many are the times his spiritual strength served as a solid support for us all to lean on. I pray that God is with you and he surrounds you with the Holy Spirit in these difficult times.
I was lucky to get to know Larry many years ago and he was a positive light on everything he touched and did. Our prayers go out to his family and friends and I know we will all miss him. My family has been blessed by knowing him.
What a wonderful man the world has lost. I don’t recall ever seing Larry in a down mood. He fought a long & courageous battle & is now pain free in the loving arms of our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ. Ginger, may God be with you at this difficult time. Love & blessings. Sandy & Buck Weaver
I just wanted to let all of the Pitts family know how much I am thinking about them with the passing of Larry. I can only hope the memories they have over the years will help them at this time. I, too, have many fond memories of Larry as we both grew up at the same time and spent time together on the courts of Dixon and Arlee. He was a special guy with a big heart. It was always nice to run into him and catch up on things and talk sports and visit about our kids together. I will miss seeing him in Polson, Ronan, Missoula or anywhere else we may have crossed paths. He certainly was special.
Ginger and family,
Thank you so much for the sacrafices you made by sharing Larry’s time and love. He is truly with his lord and singing with the angels. Everyone that knew him, loved him. May God bless you through these trying times.
In God’s Love,
Bonnie, Jeremy and Deedee Rice
To the Pitts family,
I’m so sorry to hear of Larry’s passing. I spent many summers in Dixon growing up in the late 60s and 70s, and used to spend a lot of time at the Pitts’ house, and up the Bench, at the school, and swimming at the river. I thoroughly enjoyed those memories of Montana, my sister is still up there. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of the Pitts family at this time.
I am so sorry for your loss but know that Larry is in the Lords arms and he is singing with joy! He was always a bright shining star in my day when he would come by and tell me that it was a good day and the Lord loves you! I will miss his cheerful and uplifing moments. I have a feeling that his brother Garry will take over for him though! He already has made a difference in some of my mornings at work with his cheerful greetings! Take comfort in knowing that he made a difference in many peoples lives and was a true inspiration to all.
May the Lord comfort you at this time.
Paulette O’Neill
I don’t know that you’ll remember me, Ginger, maybe that I was a pitiful golfer! I was in Polson yesterday and passing by Larry’s old office wondered about the 2 of you and the kids. I check this website about once a week and was so sorry to read about Larry tonight. What a beautiful homage to him and the part that struck me was that he would “light up a room”….so true.
He is forever young….
In deepest sympathy,
Ginger & Family,
I just wanted to let you know that you are in my thoughts. I am so sorry for the loss of your husband & father.
My deepest heartfelt sympathy.
It is with a sad heart that I hear this news. Though he never knew it, Larry was someone I looked up to. I remember the struggle he had when he was first diagnosed with diabetes. It is such a comfort to read of his faith. May you find comfort in the everlasting Grace of Christ. Psalms 61:2 is a verse that has brought me much peace over the years and I would like to offer it’s comfort to you as well. “…when my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
May God bless your wonderful family at this time
Jon Grant & family
Dear Ginger & Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Larry fought a long, hard, and courageous battle. He touched so many lives in such a positive way. And although he will be greatly missed in this life, we can rejoice that we will see him in the next life. I pray that you are comforted, knowing that Larry is in the loving arms of the Father, with no more pain and suffering. God’s peace to you all…
Becky Riebe & Frank Noles
What a precious saint was Larry. My love and support is with you Ginger and family. If I don’t see you Saturday, Dianne and my heart are with you. I know there will be many there with you and your family. My plans are to be there. I’m so sorry. Love Kelly and Dianne Courage
Always positive. Always perceptive. Always compassionate. I first met Larry when my then step son, John Wise played sports for Polson. We became friends immediately and stayed friends even as time and distance intervened. I later kept up-to-date through his brother, Terry, but have since lost that contact as well.
Great guy. A blessing to all who knew and loved him!
My family send our love & prayers. Larry was an inspiration to everyone. May GOD bless & watch over each and everyone of you.
Ginger, Whitney, & Taylor-
WOW! What a life Larry led and what an inspiration to all of us! Larry will always be thought of as a wonderful and smiling man who was always up! Thank you for sharing him with us! May the memories put smiles on all of our faces!
w/love, Dan & Lisa Kinyon
Ginger,
So sorry to hear about Larry’s passing. We just got back from visting Dusty and his family in Australia and read about it in the news paper. Dusty had asked about how Larry was doing just last week.
It’s so sad to see him go but Praise God we KNOW where he is, for sure!
I know that nothing I or anyone else can say will ease the pain and loneliness you are feeling right now, only time will do that, but know we are praying for you and your family.
God is with you, Dave and Debbie Long
I will miss Larry’s smile and positive attitude. He carried this with him wherever he went giving people the best of himself. We need to take a life lesson from him. good bye Larry, peace be with you.