1934-2020
Larry Dean Wakeeld, age 85 of Ellsworth WI, died on Wednesday, November 18, 2020 at his home, sur – rounded by the love of his family. Larry was born at home on December 23, 1934 in Arkansaw WI to parents Florence and Alice (Rein) Wakeeld. Larry graduated from Arkansaw High School, after which he attended Vo-Tech school in Saint Paul, where he trained to become a skilled welder. Larry worked through the years in meat packing, maintenance and welding with Armour Packaging, North Star Steel, and Meyer Manufacturing.
Outside of work, Larry was a man who loved the outdoors. Fishing, as well as deer, duck and pheasant hunting, were among some of his most favorite things to do. His love for spending time on the lakes of North –
ern Wisconsin whether sh –
ing or enjoying watersports is a passion inherent in his grandchildren and great granddaughters whose love for shing were a great sense of pride and brought much joy to Grandpa Larry.
Larry also enjoyed camp – ing trips and traveling out West to take in the beauty of several National Parks. Among his most memorable trips were spent in Alaska, Missouri, Niagra Falls and New Mexico just to name a few. He was happy to share his love of the outdoors with others, and cherished time he spent with his family and friends through the years. Larry had an adventurous spirit and was never hesi – tant to try something new. Encouraging others to take risks through the years with his "Only fear is holding you back" statement will always be remembered by those who took the chance to try something new at his urging.
Larry is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Myrna; children, David (Georgene) Wakeeld, Pa – mela (Garry) Peterson, and Traci (Robert) Foster; grand – children, Mitchell (Stacey) Peterson, Phillip (ancée Ashley) Wakeeld, Cortney (ancé Jeremy) Wakeeld, Kylie (Jared) Hines, Timo – thy Wakeeld, and MyKenzi (Jared) Murphy; great-grand – daughters, Lilyana, Amelia, Nora, and Nellie; siblings, Darrel, Michael, Sandra, Del Jane, and Glenn; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his son, Kevin Wakeeld; his parents; and siblings Vern, Dorothy, and Bernice.
With the ongoing pan – demic, and to respect Larry's wishes, no formal services will be held. His family will gather to remember him with a private family service. Me – morials honoring Larry may be directed to the discre – tion of his family. Services have been entrusted to the O'Connell-Benedict Fam –
ily Funeral Home of Ells –
worth WI. 715-273-4421 www.oconnellbenedict.com
