Larry Gene Cyr

Larry Gene Cyr

February 21, 1942 – June 21, 2026

Some people leave behind grand accomplishments. Others leave behind something even greater—a family built on love, hard work, laughter, and the example of a life well lived. Larry Gene Cyr was one of those people.

Larry, 84, of Walker, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2026, with his children, Terry and Jana, by his side.

He was born on February 21, 1942, to Francis "Fritz" and LaVonne "Bonnie" (Volk) Cyr. Welcomed home by his sister, Lorelei, Larry later became the proud big brother to his younger sisters, Francis and Terri.

At just 17 years old, Larry married the love of his life, Janice Elaine Knowles, on January 2, 1960. Their marriage became the foundation of everything they built together over the next 65 years. They weren't just husband and wife—they were partners in every sense of the word, raising a family, building a home, and creating a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

After a brief time serving in the United States Navy in Key West, Florida, Larry and Jan began their married life in Apple Valley, where they welcomed their first son, Terry. They later moved to Bloomington, where Larry worked for Westwood Concrete while son Dewey and daughters Jana and Jill completed their family.

In 1975, they settled in Walker, where Larry and his friend Bob opened B&L Grocery. Both families lived above the store, making it an adventure they'll never forget. During that same time, Larry began building the family home on ten acres purchased from Jan's parents, Orval and Jenny Knowles. It wasn't simply a house, it became the place where holidays were celebrated, grandchildren played, stories were shared, and memories were made for generations.

Larry eventually admitted that grocery stores weren't really his calling. Working with concrete, lumber, and a hammer suited him much better. He returned to construction, operating his own concrete business and doing carpentry for area contractors before joining DeWitt Electric in Walker. Whether pouring concrete, framing a house, or helping someone with a project, Larry took pride in doing things the right way. His hands built far more than structures—they built a life for his family.

Larry enjoyed bowling, playing softball, and spending crisp autumn days in the deer stand with family and friends. Whether at the bowling alley, on the softball field, or around hunting camp after a successful day in the woods, he loved the camaraderie, the stories, and the laughter that came with time spent together. He never met a stranger for long, and wherever Larry went, laughter was never far behind.

In 1987, Larry was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. While many would have allowed the disease to define them, Larry never did. He faced every challenge with quiet determination and remarkable grace. He refused to complain, and if anyone asked how he was doing, his answer was almost always the same:

"It could be worse. I could be dying from cancer."

That was Larry. Strong without needing recognition. Tough without being bitter. Grateful for what he had instead of dwelling on what he had lost.

His greatest joy, however, wasn't found at work or in the woods. It was found in his family. He loved watching his children grow, cherished every grandchild and great-grandchild, and never passed up an opportunity to spend time with the people he loved most.

Larry also treasured his afternoons at the Legion, where friends gathered to swap stories that somehow improved with every retelling. He was famous for his quick wit, perfectly timed one-liners, and jokes that were, more often than not, just inappropriate enough to make everyone laugh even harder. If Larry was in the room, chances were someone was smiling.

Above everything else, Larry loved Jan. She was his greatest blessing, his constant companion, and the love of his life. Their story was one of enduring commitment, quiet sacrifices, and a partnership that inspired everyone who knew them. It was impossible to think of one without the other.

Larry is survived by his children, Terry (Darlene) Cyr, Dewey (Kris) Cyr, Jana (Jeff) Weise, and Jill Cyr (James Merten); his grandchildren, Kyle (Jenny) Cyr, Karlene (Brandon) Little, Dustin Campbell, Madison Eibes, Sidney Eibes, Orval Cyr, and Martin Cyr; his great-grandchildren, Mike and Millie Laputka, Sarah Cyr, and Keyera Campbell; his sister, Lorelei Olson; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Jan; his parents, Fritz and Bonnie Cyr; and his sisters, Francis Johnson and Terri Cyr.

Though his family will miss him every day, there is comfort in imagining Larry and Jan together once again after a lifetime of loving one another.

A Celebration of Larry's Life will be held Friday, July 24, 2026, in Walker, Minnesota.

Larry's legacy isn't measured by the buildings he helped construct or the miles he traveled, but by the people who loved him. He showed his family what perseverance looked like. He taught them that hard work mattered, that laughter could get you through almost anything, and that even life's greatest challenges could be met with dignity and grace.

His stories will continue to be told. His jokes will continue to be repeated. His lessons will continue to be lived.

And every time his family gathers together, a part of Larry will be there too.

Service Information

Visitation
Friday, July 24, 2026
Noon–1:00 p.m.
Hope Lutheran Church
Walker, Minnesota

Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Hope Lutheran Church

Burial
Immediately following the service at Turtle Lake Cemetery. Family and friends are welcome to attend.

Luncheon
Immediately following the burial, family and friends are invited to join us for a luncheon and a time of fellowship at the Walker American Legion.

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