Larry N. Metzger Obituary (1947 - 2025)

Larry Nestor Metzger, a beloved husband, father, and pillar of his community, passed away on April 20, 2025, at the age of 78, after a valiant battle following a stroke. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM, Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Spirit of Life Catholic Church, Mandan. Visitation is scheduled for Monday, May 5, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 PM with a Rosary service beginning at 7 PM, at DaWise-Perry / Mandan Crematory, 4211 Old Red Trail, Mandan. Burial will be in the North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan. Cremation has taken place. * In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be given in memory of Larry to North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Bismarck Cancer Center, or Alzheimer’s Disease research. Born in Langdon, ND to parents Nestor and Helen Metzger. Larry called Center, ND his home for many fulfilling years. Larry served his country with honor as a Sergeant in the Army, with a deployment in Korea, embodying the values of duty, respect, and integrity that he carried throughout his life. Larry married his loving wife, Luella (Woodrow), on September 11, 1971, a union that blossomed into a lifetime of shared adventures and unwavering devotion. Larry dedicated 29 years of his life as an electrician for BNI Coal, where his enthusiasm and hard work left an indelible mark. Beyond his professional endeavors, Larry's true legacy lies in the richness of his personal life and the countless lives he touched. He is survived by his loving wife, Lu Metzger, with whom he shared countless cherished memories. Larry leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth through his children: son Jamie (wife - Heather, children - Phoenix and Griffin) and daughter Kristy (husband Kjell, children – Justin, Nathan, Emily, Aveah and Levi). Larry is also survived by brothers Lee, Glenn, Daryl, Ron, Gene and sisters Sharon, Lanette and Carla. He is preceded in death by his parents Nestor and Helen, sister Beverly and nephews Cody and Elliot. Larry was a man of many passions and interests. He found solace and joy in the great outdoors through fishing, hunting, and camping. Road trips were a cherished pastime, and Larry was always up for an adventure. His involvement in the Oliver County Gun Club, Pheasants Forever, and Ducks Unlimited spoke to his deep connection to nature. His community will remember Larry as a devoted member of various organizations, including the Jaycee’s, Job Development Association, American Legion, St. Martin’s Church, Oliver County Fair, Boxing Club and Hunters Safety. A true example of volunteerism. Always the life of the party, Larry had a contagious zest for life that lit up any room he entered. Larry will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His kindness, laughter, and unwavering spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the echoes of the joy he brought to the world.