Larry Jo DeWilde

Larry was an all-around wonderful husband and father. Among some of his favorite accomplishments, he was a Navy Veteran of the aircraft carrier, “Enterprise” which was the first nuclear powered Navy ship to travel around the world. After he got out of the Navy, he met and married the love of his life, Tanya. They had one daughter and made her the center of their world. Throughout their 60 years of marriage, he was able to show Tanya and Colette the world because of his Job at American Saw and Mfg (Lenox saw blades) and Larry and Tanya were lucky enough to live and work overseas for many years. Larry had a passion for helping others generously with his time and resources. If he wasn't helping someone, he was either making sure his yard looked perfect for all to enjoy or golfing. He had a longtime group of 4 friends that enjoyed playing many different golf courses together throughout his life. He made friends wherever he went with a few friends that he formed lifelong friendships with. The Molendas, the Bergerons and then there were the Hooks & Stephens in Australia just to name a few. As his daughter, I knew I was loved and thought about constantly. His family came before anything else. I have too many wonderful memories of times I spent with my Dad but just a few that really stick out are Saturday rides on the motorcycle to Griffith Park, teaching me to drive a stick shift car in the snow, the Michael Jackson concert, washing cars together while singing and dancing like crazy people, his smile when I played the piano for him and how he taught me to be brave, good hearted and hard-working by his example. He lived a large life doing the things he loved with the people he loved. He travelled around the world and enjoyed seeing the sights and learning the customs of locals wherever he visited. He would try anything at least once. He loved spicy food, any international cuisine that was offered (sometimes to our horror). He went skydiving with his son in law (saying once was enough). Rode motorcycles, enjoyed camping out with friends and family whenever he could and he even rode a jetski once or twice. Larry is survived by his wife Tanya, daughter Colette Waite, son-in-law Rocky Waite, three beloved grandchildren ShaLane, Launica and Jeremiah and countless other family members who will miss him dearly. We will miss you but will see you again soon in Heaven.

Larry Jo DeWilde

November 7, 1943 - June 5, 2026