Lawrence Vernon Bentz, 90

Lawrence Vernon Bentz was born Dec. 24, 1930, to Jacob and Emma (Hintz) Bentz, on a farm near Heil, N.D. He grew up on the farm and was baptized and confirmed at the Lutheran ‘Stone Church,’ north of Elgin, N.D. He attended country school through eighth grade and returned to help on the family farm.

In 1953, he enlisted in the United States Army and served for two years in Germany. He worked in the general services in upholstery. Larry was honorably discharged Dec. 28, 1953, having attained the rank of corporal, and returned back to North Dakota.

Lawrence was united in marriage to Lillian (Flitsch) Bentz on Feb. 28, 1954. Their union was blessed with 67 years of marriage together. The couple made their home in various communities, where Larry’s work in trucking for the U.S. government took them. They made their home in New England, North Dakota, Riverdale, N.D., South Dakota and California. While in California, Larry worked at the naval weapons station.

He retired in 1985 and the couple moved to Rathdrum, Idaho. Larry died peacefully at Generations in Rathdrum, on Jan. 1, 2021, at the age of 90.

Larry was a lifetime member of the VFW. He enjoyed hobby-farming, working on old cars, playing his accordions and time spent with his family.

Larry will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Lillian Bentz of Rathdrum; siblings, Ruth Mund of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Abelina Sullivan of Madras, Ore., Ernst (and Rose) Bentz of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Twyla Schock of Leith, N.D. and Karen (and Tom) Kapla of Bismarck; along with many nieces and nephews, and other family and friends. Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Jacob and Emma; brother, Erhart Bentz, and an infant brother.

Blessed be the memory of Lawrence Vernon Bentz. Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Home.