Larry McKenzie

On the evening of August 14, 2015 Larry passed peacefully away at his home in Bellevue, Idaho. Larry was 67 years old.

Larry McKenzie was born in the town of Wendell in Gooding County, Idaho on May 9, 1948 and moved to the Wood River Valley as a child. He was the 3rd son of Katherine Mae McKenzie (Davis) and Darrell Desmond McKenzie.

Larry graduated from Wood River High School and soon after served in the army from April to September 1969, and is a veteran of the Vietnam War. He earned several medals for his heroism and bravery, including the Purple Heart, Silver Star and Bronze Star for helping a wounded soldier get to safety after he himself had been shot several times.

Although he was announced 100% disabled after this act of bravery, Larry refused to sit still. He was soon mining claims around Croy and regularly hunted to provide food for his family. Larry was a master angler and thoroughly enjoyed fishing for steelhead and salmon along the banks of the Salmon River. In the winter you could find Larry snowmobiling with family and friends. He earned his place in the Bowling Hall of Fame and could be seen wearing one of his rings awarded to him for playing two perfect games.

Larry was always extending his kind and helping hand to family, friends and neighbors. He’d plow the entire neighborhood whenever it snowed or charitably help those in financial need. Larry treated every person and animal he came across with the utmost respect and was loved by many in return. When out in the community, someone was always shaking Larry’s hand or simply hugging him. There are not words to express how generous, thoughtful and caring Larry was. He will be truly missed by the countless number of people he has touched over the years.

Larry is preceded in death b y his parents Katherine Mae and Darrell Desmond McKenzie.

Larry is survived by his siblings Marvin and Wendy McKenzie, Judy and Tom Peterson, Wayne McKenzie, Darrell and Dusty McKenzie, Debbie Christiansen and Dan Nyberg, Tina and Leroy Renner, and Gene McKenzie. His children Diane and Colby Smith, Justin and Melissa McKenzie, and Bryce McKenzie and Evelyn Broxson. His grandchildren Carter Smith, McKenzie Smith and Evan Dahms and his good friends Nora and Chris Ruggles. Larry was affectionately known as Uncle Larry to many and will also be missed by his best furry friends, Freckles and Scout.

Military graveside services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21, 2015 at the Hailey Cemetery. Friends may call Wood River Chapel on Thursday, Aug. 20th, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. and on Friday, Aug. 21st, from 1:00-2:00 p.m.

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