Larry Gilliland, 78, a proud Irishman, husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed quietly in the early hours of the morning on Saturday, May 18, 2019.
Larry grew up a farmers son in Pipestone, Mn., giving him a strong work ethic. He served with pride and honor in the National Guard from 1958-1964.
In 1960, Larry married his high school sweetheart, Sharon, and they had four beautiful children together, while Larry began a career that lasted decades as a commercial truck tire salesman.
Larry met his current wife, Carole, whom he called “the love of his life” in 1997. They were married some months later, moving from California to International Falls, Mn. where they enjoyed life for the rest of his living days.
Larry loved fishing (albeit with mixed results), hunting, gardening, woodworking, and assisting the elderly for as long as his health permitted. He was a master storyteller and his stories will continue to be legends to all who knew him.
Larry is preceded in death by his father, Clifford; his mother, Ada; brother, Loren; and step-children, Gene-Eugene, Todd and Jana-Lyn.
Larry is survived by his wife, Carole (International Falls); ex-wife, Sharon and their children, Lance (Sherry), Leslie (Eric), Lynae (Mary), Lane (Jen) and stepdaughter, Lisa.
He is also survived by sister, Pat; sister-in-law, Beverly; nine grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; 16 great- and step-great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Larry’s wish is to have a celebration and the Irish wake will be held Saturday, June 1 at 4-8 p.m. at the Border Bar located at 415 3rd Ave, International Falls, Mn.
For the family and friends traveling from out of town, we have a block of rooms reserved for June 1 under “Gilliland” at a discounted rate, so please call the Days Inn 2331 U.S. Hwy 53 South, International Falls, MN 56649 to confirm your room by Saturday, May 25.
Larry may the road rise up to meet you . . .
LARRY GILLILAND
