May 21, 1942 – March 28, 2024
DEER LODGE – Lawrence Peder Hart, 81, of Deer Lodge, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2024. He was visited and comforted by family, friends, and hospice staff in Deer Lodge, MT. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and cherished friend to many. He leaves behind a zest for life that will be deeply missed and made easier knowing he is at home with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Larry was born along with his twin brother, Clarence, on May 21, 1942, to O’telie Sveum. He grew up with his brother and younger sister Helen in Cut Bank, Montana. From an early age, he had an innate understanding and talent for working with all things mechanical. His love for cars, motorcycles, and snowmobiles was more than a hobby; it was a lifelong passion that shaped his adventures and relationships. Larry will be remembered for the twinkle in his eye when talking about his latest project as well as his willingness to lend a hand and share his knowledge with others.
His enthusiasm for auto mechanics translated into a long and distinguished career in teaching at Montana State Prison where he impacted the lives of innumerable inmates. Larry further expressed commitment to his community by serving on the Deer Lodge Volunteer Fire Department, where he was also known to tinker on a fire truck or two.
His journey through life was enriched by the love and companionship of his dear wife, Loy, who preceded him in death. He was also reunited in the afterlife with his parents and sister, Helen. He is survived by his daughter, Heather (Bill), of Columbus, OH; and Loy’s children: Wendy Woolstenhulme and Wade Berkram. Among Larry’s greatest joys were his cherished grandchildren: Hannah (Justin) Dykes and Jack Lansky, who brought immeasurable happiness and pride to his life. His brother, Clarence (Faye) of Sweetgrass, MT, along with his beloved niece, Michelle, fondly remember him, as do the wide circle of relatives and friends whose lives he touched.
“Larry’s Last Ride” motorcade in his honor will kick off from the Old Montana Prison parking lot at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 25, 2024, and travel down Main Street in Deer Lodge. The motorcade will be followed by a 3:30 p.m. celebration of life at the Elks Club in Deer Lodge. We invite all who knew him through his various car clubs and activities to participate in the motorcade/mini-car show. We can think of no better way to honor his memory than showing appreciation for the cars he loved and sharing stories of the remarkable man he was.
Funeral service and reception will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Cut Bank, on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. A private burial ceremony will follow.
If you plan to attend any of the events in Larry’s honor, please assist the family by submitting an RSVP to https://redcap.link/larryhart
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Deer Lodge Firemen’s Relief Fund or to Young Life (http://oh181.younglife.support/crowd/northeast-columbus-camp-trip-2024). Young Life is an organization that Larry’s granddaughter Hannah is involved with and that he had strong support for.
Please visit axelsonfuneralhome.com to offer the family condolences or to share a memory of Larry.
