"Dear Carolyn and Family, I was a student of Larry?s at Crestwood Elementary in 1972. I always considered Larry as one of my favourite teachers. He was also the coach for our basketball, football and track. He was always passionate about teaching and coaching. Even at 12 years old, he wasn?t always that authoritarian type that many students see in their teachers. I remember many times when he had a smile on his face. Maybe it was the day we left 7th grade and moved onto 8th. One always wonders what happens to the teachers who taught you so many years ago. It seems Larry has had a very fulfilling life and wonderful family. "
In loving memory of
Larry Westen
January 31, 1941 - June 26, 2019
Larry E. Westen, a former Antigo resident and current resident of The Villages, Florida passed away unexpectedly June 26, 2019 at Wausau Aspirus Hospital. He was 78 years old. Born in Wayland, Iowa in 1941, Larry was raised on a farm in Washington, Iowa . He graduated from Crawfordsville High School and earned his bachelor's degree from the Iowa State Teachers College, now University of Northern Iowa.
Larry married Carolyn Conrad in 1961 and began his teaching career in Eagle Grove, Iowa from 1964-1968. He then took a job in production management for International Milling Co. for the next two years.
He moved to Antigo in 1970. Larry took a teaching position with the Unified School District of Antigo and was a dedicated educator for 26 years. He recently recalled in a conversation that some of his fondest memories were the years at Crestwood Elementary School where he also coached several athletic programs. After retiring in 1996, he was a long haul truck driver part time for 8 years. He had a passion for cutting firewood and was known by many as an extremely hard worker. In 2002 Larry and his wife began spending time in The Villages, Florida, eventually becoming Florida residents. Larry was an avid golfer, loved to fish, ride bicycles, and drink coffee at the Dixie. He also loved spending time at the cottage during the summer months.
Larry and Carolyn were members of the United Methodist Church in Antigo for many years and joined the New Covenant United Methodist Church in Florida where he volunteered on many projects. Larry loved his family and grandchildren immensely and will be missed by many.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Evert and Wilma Westen, and a sister Mary Jo.
Survivors include his wife of nearly 58 years, Carolyn. Two sons Kelly and Heidi (Johnston) Westen of Illinois, Mark and Kathy (Husnick) Westen of Antigo; four grandchildren; Cydney, Jackson, Bradley and Julia.
A memorial service will be held on Monday July 1, 2019 at 7 p.m. at Bradley Funeral Home with Deacon Tom Hartman officiating. Visitation will be Monday from 4:30 p.m. until the time of services at the funeral home.
Tributes
"Carolyn and family- Sorry to hear of Larry's death. Larry was a great asset to the Antigo school district. We've heard of your Villages adventures through mutual friends. May the memories and love bring you comfort. Jeanne and Jim Peters, retired school educators, now grandparenting in Platteville, Wis."
"Our deepest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. Larry was an amazing man and he will truly be missed. John Boudry and Family "
"We were very sorry hear the loss of Larry. Our deepest sympathies to you Carolyn and families. Many wonderful memories from Antigo. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God comfort you. Bev Sullivan, Ann Schroeder, Doug Sullivan"
"As neighbors in The Villages, Larry and Carolyn enriched our lives by always giving and lending support in any way possible. We will always remember Larry as a dear friend. Cliff and Marilyn Russell"
"I am very sorry to hear this news about Larry. You have my deepest sympathies. Take good care of yourself during these difficult times. A lot of people will be thinking about you."
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. I remember the few years of teaching together...and seeing him sell firewood in Crandon...gone too soon RiP Larry!"
"So glad we got to know Larry in The Villages. Our deepest sympathy to you, Carolyn, and your family. He really enjoyed life and always had a positive attitude. Ron and Barb Winter"
"Larry will be missed by everyone on Roanoke St., but not as much we will miss him. We so enjoyed our times together. He was happy to get in the car and find a new bike trail for the four of us to enjoy! Glad we have all those wonderful memories! Carolyn, Mark and family our deepest sympathy! May he Rest In Peace and may all your memories help you through this most difficult time! Donna and Bobby"
"So very sorry to here of Larry?s passing. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Pam McAuly "
"Thinking of you and your family in the loss of this great man. So thankful that God carried out the plans of the "class of 59" being together and the sharing of so many fun times, laughter and memories! He truly was one of a kind. Blessings, Gerry Farrier "
"Just hard for us to believe. So glad we got to see and visit a little with Larry and you at the Crawfordsville Reunion. Makes us all realize every day is precious. Our sincere sympathy to you, Carolyn and your family. Gwyn and Ed Augustine "
"What do I say? I'm still in shock, so sorry for your loss, Carolyn! Larry was one of the best. Ellen Edgar Waggoner"
"There are no words that can express the deepest sympathy we feel for your loss Caroline. We will truly miss Larry. May he rest in peace. "