Larry Lee First was born a leap year baby in Summerville, Mass., to Henry Gust First and Phyllis Giesel First. He grew up in Detroit Lakes Minn., and Durant, where he (Ox) was known for his athletic talents in basketball, football, baseball and track. His name is on the wall at the Durant High School for the most basketball rebounds, numbering 791. He married Gail Sannes (Normal, Ill.) and they had two beautiful daughters.
Larry attended college at LeMars, Iowa, and graduated from Univiversity of Dubuque, where he played football and baseball. He got his master’s degree at Illinois State University. Larry was a teacher and coach of football, baseball, basketball and track who retired in 2003 after a 38-year teaching career at Normal Community Schools in Normal, Ill., where he was affectionately called “Harvey” by his close friends. He played semi-pro football for two years
Larry passed away on April 25, 2025, at the age of 81. He was preceded in death by his father. Surviving are his mother, Phyllis First (102 years old) Durant, sister Patricia (Richard) Juchter of Wilton, daughters: Amy Sunquist of Kenosha, Wis., and Stacy Robertson, Seattle Wash., two grandsons: Seth and Isaac Robertson of Seattle, nieces, nephews, many cousins and his caregiver/wife Liz Gramm and faithful dog Lexy of Mesquite, Nev.
Larry had many interests, among them were: Cincinnati Reds, Lone Ranger, Jack Reacher Novels (he loved to read, watch old movies and of course sports when he wasn’t able to be active), model trains, riding motorcycles, traveling back to see family and friends in Iowa and Illinois, clocks, and most recently 3D printing. He was a member of Mesquite United Methodist Church, Mesquite, Nev., where he was a Stephen Minister for several years. He had been a volunteer at the local high school and nursing home in Mesquite. He had been a member of various motorcycle clubs and train club. If Larry had a cookie or candy and a pop in his hand watching the Dallas Cowboys on the TV, he was right where he wanted to be. He loved music, his family, his friends and his loyal dog.
A service will be held at Mesquite United Methodist Church, Mesquite, Nev. There will be a later celebration for family and friends in Durant.
Custom obituary