It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of an incredible father, husband, family member and friend, Larry W. Werner, 82 of Chippewa Falls, who died Sunday, August 31, 2025 at his residence. 

Born on New Year's Eve 1942 the son of Palmer and Mary (Patterson) Werner, he was raised in Chippewa Falls and attended the Chippewa Area Catholic schools where he was a proud graduate of McDonell High School. After graduating he answered the call to serve his country, spending three years in the Navy aboard the USS Ranger - CVA 61. His commitment to service was a theme that ran throughout his life. After the Navy, he earned a bachelor's degree in business administration and psychology from UW-Eau Claire, and later pursued master's courses at UW-Milwaukee. He taught in Bangor, WI, Caledonia, MN, then worked at Northern Center for the developmentally disabled until he retired in his early '60s.

His greatest joy came from his family. He was blessed to find love twice in his lifetime. He was married to his first wife, Joyce Prueher, until her passing in 1979. Later, he was blessed to find love again with Joanie Stehle, whom he's been married to since 1982.

He was a proud father to his three sons, Mike, Joe, and Andrew. He taught them the value of hard work, that If you set your mind to something you can achieve it, and a vast love of the outdoors.

He lived a full life and had stories to match it. He was a master storyteller, and his incredible tales will be cherished by all who heard them.

He was a pillar of the community, dedicating countless hours and years of service to the American Legion, VFW, Patriotic Council, the Senior Center and Badger Boys State. His love for nature was shared through his involvement with Ducks Unlimited and the Chippewa Valley Outdoor Resource Alliance.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Palmer; his brother, Don (Joanne); his sister, Mary Ann (Curtis) Close; brother-in-law, Pete Stehle; his first wife, Joyce; and his infant son, David.

He is survived by his wife, Joanie; his sons: Mike (Teri), Andrew (JoAna), and Joe (Katy); and grandkids: Myla, Haven, Rhys, Cruz, Luca and Indy.

While we grieve this profound loss, we find solace in the memories he created with us. He will forever be remembered as a loving father, a proud veteran, and a cherished friend whose stories will echo in our hearts forever.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, September 11 at St. Charles Church in Chippewa Falls. Inurnment will be in Hope Cemetery in Chippewa Falls at a later date. Military rites will be conducted by the Chippewa Falls Patriotic Council.

Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. Wednesday, September 10 and from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. on Thursday, September 11 at the Horan Funeral Home. There will be a Christian vigil service at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

AFTER SERVICE NOTICE:

Funeral services for Larry W. Werner were held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, September 11 at St. Charles Church.

Rev. Timothy Oudenhoven was celebrant of the funeral Mass assisted by Mass servers, Ron Bresina and Tom Weyenberg

Music during the Mass was provided by Curstin Lynch and the St. Charles Funeral Choir. Readings were given by Teri Werner and Angie Walker. Gift bearers were Myla, Haven, Rhys, Cruz, Luca and Indy Werner.

Casket bearers were Harry Bauer, Tom Stehle, Erv Thoms, Andrew, Joe and Mike Werner.

Wednesday evening Rev. Alex Kren led the family, relatives and friends in a Christian vigil service at the funeral home.

Military rites were conducted by the Chippewa Falls Patriotic Council with Taps played by Ryan Roach.