Larry Bruce Sabanish, 66

Published 10:44 am Thursday, March 17, 2016

Larry Bruce Sabanish, 66, of Austin, Minnesota, died Saturday, March 12, 2016, at his home, the Cedars of Austin.

Larry Burce Sabanish, 66

Larry was born Dec. 22, 1949, in Austin to John and Gladys (Libor) Sabanish, the youngest of eight children. He graduated from Pacelli High School and attended Austin Vocational School. Larry was drafted into the Army on Aug. 18, 1969, and served in Vietnam with the 101 First Airborne Division. Larry was very proud to have served his country in the military and a was a true lifetime veteran, appreciative of his country and attending as many veteran memorial events as possible.

Larry was married to Diane Jean Tapp on April 14, 1973, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Austin. To this union a son was born, Chad Bruce Sabanish. They were later divorced, but remained friends until Diane passed away on Dec. 24, 2015.

Larry enjoyed his long-time career as a cook, many years at Kenny’s Oak Grill, until his failing health no longer allowed him to work. He enjoyed sharing his cooking knowledge with family and friends. After he suffered a stroke in 2007, Larry was later employed by Cedar Valley Services. He had a great love of the outdoors dating back to his early childhood, spending time with his parents bullhead fishing, camping with friends, and passing his love and interest of fishing, nature and the outdoors onto his son, Chad, who shared that his dad was the greatest teacher. Larry had a group of life-long buddies and with them enjoyed a great poker game, drinking a few beers, and sharing many good times. Despite his failing vision, using a magnifying glass, he enjoyed reading and discussing what he had read, be it the daily paper or fishing and hunting magazines.

Larry was a humble and caring man; his close friend, Dick, stating he would give you the shirt off his back. He was always grateful, never failing to express his gratitude for even the simplest things and lived a life of simplicity. Larry had an unconditional love for his son, Chad, and enjoyed the occasional visit from his grandchildren, Jordan and Cole.

Survivors include his son, Chad (Jennifer) Sabanish, Austin, Minnesota; grandchildren, Jordan and Cole Sabanish; step-grandchildren, Alesha, Kellijo, and Adam Stigney; sisters, Joan (Wayne) Skov, Lyle, Minnesota, Mona (Verdon) Olson, Spring Grove, Minnesota, Delores (Robert) Neshiem, Mazeppa, Minnesota, Margary Danielson, Grand Meadow, Minnesota; brother, Donald (Doris) Sabanish, Maple Park, Illinois; several nieces and nephews; and close friends.

Welcoming him into Heaven are his parents; brothers, Jackie and Gary; nephew, Raymond; former wife, Diane; brother-in-law, Bob; close friends, Sandy and Tim.

A memorial mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Monday, March 21, 2016, at St. Edward’s Catholic Church with Father Jim Steffes officiating. Friends may call one hour before the service at the church on Monday. Interment with military honors will be in the Minnesota State Cemetery in Preston, Minnesota (Larry’s old fishing ground.) In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. Arrangements are by Mayer Funeral Home. Condolences may be left online at www.mayerfh.com.