Larry Lee Gelesky, 66.

Larry Lee Gelesky, 66, beloved veteran, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2025, surrounded by love and family. Born on October 31, 1958, Larry lived a life full of strength, stories, quiet humor, and unwavering love for those closest to him. He was a man who made people feel cared for often in his own stubborn and unforgettable way.

Larry proudly served 20 years in the United States Air Force, retiring as a decorated veteran. His time in service allowed him to travel the world, forge lifelong friendships, and build a life rooted in honor, loyalty, and dedication. The lessons he learned in the military were ones he carried into every chapter of his life, and he passed those values on to his children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren with quiet pride.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter Gelesky and Evelyn Elizabeth Buchanan, as well as his beloved siblings: Alice Cripps, Butch (Walter) Gelesky, Helen Camp-Boles, Lucille Shaffer, Steven Gelesky, and Andrew Gelesky.

Larry is survived by his sisters Margie Dillon, Violet Greenawalt, and Barb Hibbard. He leaves behind his loving children: Larry Lee Gelesky Jr. of Lakeview, Arkansas, Randi Van Maanen (Johnathan) of New Mexico and Amanda Baker (Chase) of Glens Falls, New York.

He was a proud and loving grandfather to Patience Johnston-Sigmin (Clint) of Gassville, Arkansas; Collin Johnston of Fort Edward, New York; Jared Johnston of Glens Falls, New York; Caleb Allen (Megan) of Glens Falls, New York; Natalia Leigh Gelesky of Greeley, Colorado; Abigail Van Maanen of New Mexico; and Gerrit Van Maanen of New Mexico.

One of his greatest joys came in watching the next generation grow his beloved grandchildren and his great-grandchildren: Kynlee, Kian, Killian, and Kemerie Sigmin, and Grayson Allen.

Larry found peace in the quiet moments: a fishing pole in hand, a road trip with no set destination, or a game of golf with good friends where laughter meant more than the score. He was a devoted and loving father steadfast, protective, and always just a phone call away. His wisdom, warmth, and unconditional love were constant in his children’s lives, and his absence leaves a space that no words, no time, and no distance could ever truly fill.

A proud great-grandfather, lovingly known as “Grandpa Yarry” to his littlest fans. His face lit up around the little ones, and he cherished every giggle, hug, and moment shared. To them, he wasn’t just Grandpa he was a source of comfort, playfulness, and pure love that will live on in their hearts and stories.

He could be tough when needed, soft when it counted, and funny when you least expected it. In the end, he never missed a moment—or a chance—to say “I love you.”

A celebration of Larry’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in his honor to the ALS Foundation in memory of his brother Andrew, or to cancer research in recognition of Larry’s own courageous battle—two causes that touched his life deeply.

Though he has left this world, Larry’s love, stories, and laughter live on in all of us. His final chapter was written with grace and strength and while he may no longer walk beside us, we know he’s somewhere with calm waters, warm sunshine, and the perfect golf swing.

Cremation arrangements are under the care of Diamond State Cremation, located in Lead Hill, Arkansas. Condolences may be left at www.DiamondStateCremation.com.