Larry Dean Funston, Jr.

Larry Dean “Little Larry” Funston, Jr., 59, passed away on October 11, 2019, in Billings, MT after a courageous fight against ARDS. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. at the Solid Rock Bible Church (751 4th Ave NW Great Falls, MT). Little Larry was born April 18, 1960, in Anaconda, MT to Larry, Sr. and Rosalie Matz Funston.Larry graduated from C.M. Russell High School in 1978.After high school, Larry went on to the Ironworkers Apprenticeship and continued a full 35 years as a union Journeyman Ironworker.Through the 35 years working across the United States, he worked many major jobs. Some including the Olympic Speed Skating Oval in Utah, restoration of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Milwaukee Brewers Stadium, just to name a few. Through his career, Larry acquired several welding certificates that only a few people obtain.Many of these jobs, he was working beside his dad, brother, uncle, cousins, and, most importantly, his son Travis.Throughout his travels around the country his heart was always in Montana with his family. Along with his love of ironworking, Larry’s love for Montana included his precious family, hunting and fishing, camping, and spending time at the “Bruno Ranch” with his partner in crime, Terry.Larry also loved boating, and would offer to take anyone to the lake to spend the day out there. Larry married his high school sweetheart and soul mate, Carol Wood on June 25, 1983.Together they had two children, Travis and Jenelle.Travis is still enjoying bachelor life, and Jenelle has a beautiful son, Griffin, who was Larry’s biggest pride and joy. Larry loved being call “Boppa.” Larry is survived by his wife, Carol Wood Funston; son, Travis; daughter, Jenelle (Karson) Morris; father, Larry, Sr.; mother, Rosalie; brother, Alan (Karen) of San Jose, California; sister, Rae; grandson, Griffin; sister-in law, Angie (Steve) Lohse; and also numerous aunts; uncles; nephews; and nieces. He will fondly be remembered as “Uncle Butt Cheese.”He was preceded in death by sister, Sandra and grandparents on both sides. Larry will be greatly missed by his family and friends, and especially missed by his two fur babies, Walter and Khloe. A very special thank you to Dr. Strong, Dr. Grasseschi, Dr. Dow, and all the staff on ICU at Benefis Health Care.What a beautiful group of people. We would also like to thank the Mercy Flight Team at Benefis Healthcare.A very special thank you, also to Dr. Stella and staff at Advanced Care Hospital of Montana in Billings.