Lawrence James Illies

Lawrence J Illies Jr., 79, of Stanchfield, passed away unexpectedly on July 11, 2024.

Larry was born on September 11, 1944 to Lawrence Illies Sr. and Ann Thompson Illies in Bagley, MN. 

After many family moves around the state, Larry settled in to graduate at Hopkins High School, class of ’63.  Shortly after graduation, Larry enlisted in the US Navy.  He was trained as an Air Radar Operator flying missions over Vietnam for two tours.  He was honorably discharged on July 11, 1967.  He returned to his parent’s home in Wayzata, MN.

Within a few weeks of his return home, Larry was introduced to his future wife, Barbara Wisneski, by his sister Cynthia Ericksen.  Larry and Barbara were married on April 20, 1967 at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church in Minneapolis, MN.  They made their first home in Coon Rapids; welcoming their daughter Simone into their lives.

To provide for his family, Larry started his 31 year career, working at Country Club Markets and later retiring as the Produce manager for Lunds & Byerlys Company.

When Larry wasn’t working, he loved to fish and hunt, but he was always “up for” trying something new and exciting.  He also collected vintage cars; 67 Chevelle Convertible in Candy Apple Red, 70 Dodge Challenger and finally a Shelby Mustang. He loved showing his “beauties” off at local car shows.

He was preceded in death by his parents, cousins Wayne and Ross Thompson.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years; Barbara, daughter Simone (David) Cole; grandsons Anthony and Nathaniel Cole, sister Cynthia (Paul) Ericksen and brother Rick Illies (Penny Shaw), Michael Illies, nieces Paula (Dave) Burcke,  Blythe (Craig) Sorensen and great-nephew Logan LaRoche.

Memorials preferred in lieu of flowers.

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