Larry Dean Base Obituary (2025)

Larry Base, beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on September 10, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on August 11, 1945, to Helen and Rubin Base, Larry grew up with a strong sense of family, hard work, and a love for the outdoors, values he carried throughout his life. Together with his former wife, Pam and Larry raised their three children, Pam, Dawn, and Michael, in Selah, Washington. He built a home where hard work, responsibility, and family ties were always at the center. Though he could be firm and set high expectations, his children knew the strength of his commitment to them and the lessons he impressed on their lives. In later years, he took pride in watching his family grow, finding meaning in his role as a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, always present to witness their milestones and share in their achievements. When Michael was young, Larry devoted countless hours to coaching his teams. He didn't just teach the kids how to play the game, he showed them the importance of teamwork, respect, and giving your best no matter the circumstances. For many of those kids, his encouragement and steady presence made a lasting impact that stayed with them long after the season ended. Larry worked for Boise Cascade for 32 years, where he built not only a career but also lasting friendships. After retirement, he continued to pour his energy into the things that mattered most to him. For 23 years, he volunteered at the Oak Creek Elk Feeding Station, where he combined his love of wildlife, nature, and community service. His dedication was recognized when he was honored as Volunteer of the Year for two consecutive years, an achievement he took great pride in. In his later years, Larry faced a hard-fought battle with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS). Through it all, he was surrounded by the extraordinary love and devotion of his son, Michael, and daughter-in-law, Lori, who cared for him with unwavering patience, compassion, and dedication. Their presence gave him comfort, dignity, and moments of joy during his final chapter, a gift of time and togetherness that his family will always deeply cherish. Larry's legacy lives on through his 10 grandchildren, Jason and Jake Harris; Jordan, Courtney, and Kadon Wright; Cassidy, Joslin, and Violet Base; and Evan and Gavin Maloney, and his 7 great-grandchildren, Jayla and Jackson Harris, Jagger and Addilyn Wright, Autumn Wright, Alice Horsley, and Vienna Lublin. He is also survived by his siblings Marian Blencoe, Donna Honeycutt, Dan Honeycutt, Norm Base, Dave Base, Robin Base, and Neva Base. He was preceded in death by his sisters Gloria Painter, Mildred Base, Rosalie Rogers Greeno, Terry Base and Cathy Neve. Alongside his family, Larry shared an especially close bond with his cousin, Gene Yost. Gene was more than family, he was a constant companion, loyal friend, and fishing buddy who stood beside Larry through every chapter of life. Those who knew Larry will remember his gentle humor, steady presence, and the way he made people feel welcome and cared for. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and love. Shaw & Sons Funeral Home is caring for the Family.