Larry Dean Ahrendt

Larry Dean Ahrendt, 74, of Madison, SD passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 15, 2024, at Madison Regional Health System. Funeral services are pending

Larry was born November 28, 1949, in Parker, SD to Wallace and Lorraine Ahrendt. Born into farm life, his early days were spent driving the tractor and helping with harvest. As a student at Parker High School, he helped foster the start of the school’s wrestling program before graduating in 1968. He worked at Skipper’s pizza while attending Dakota State College in Madison graduating in 1973 with a bachelor’s in accounting.

Larry was married to Deborah Johnson from 1977 until 1998. The couple had three daughters, Kari, Kristy and Kelsey.

Larry held a strong work ethic and passed that belief on to his daughters. He began working at East River Electric in 1976 as a laborer and was promoted throughout his career. In 2013, while in the role of purchasing coordinator, he retired after 37 years of service.

He will be remembered for his passion for the outdoors, animals, music, and his skilled craftsmanship. Together with family and friends, he enjoyed spending time hunting, fishing and camping, watching wildlife and the sunset, and attending music events.

In early 2024, Larry was diagnosed with terminal cancer. During his last weeks, he was surrounded by loved ones and furry friends, enjoyed his favorite foods like ice cream and shared stories.

Larry is survived by his long-time partner Patti Weber, his brother Wayne Ahrendt, his daughters Kari (Jed) Blom, Kristy Ullom, Kelsey (David) Besse, and grandchildren Brenden and Evelyn Blom, Elizabeth Ellingson and Mason Ullom, and Augustus and Dawson Besse. He was preceded in death by his parents Wallace & Lorraine (Denbow) Ahrendt of Parker, and sister Cheryl Van Waes.

In lieu of flowers, donations will be put towards a memorial at Larry’s favorite place, Lake Herman State Park.  Memorials can be mailed to Kinzley Funeral Home, 604 N Highland Ave, Madison, SD  57042.