The characteristic smile and thumbs up that depicted Larry Blote shifted to a whisper, and then he departed. On May 11, 2026 Larry died at the Hospice House in Rapid City, his family at his side, after a short courageous battle with cancer. He was 91 and his terminal diagnosis came only three months ago. Larry was often seen walking downtown in his orange safety vest, a habit he formed after a serious pedestrian vs pick-up injury. (He did survive many close calls and near-brushes with death). The Firehouse was his local “Cheers” where his favorite soup was on the menu, and everyone knew his name. He had a steady stream of visitors, phone calls, and texts in his room at Hospice House, for nearly two weeks, until his body finally gave out. He enjoyed life to the end. He was overwhelmed by the kindness and compassion of his caregivers at the Hospice House, and his family could not be more grateful for their tender care.

Larry entered this world on October 6, 1934, the only son of Otto and Leona Blote. Gloria, Larry’s sister, joined the family eight years later. Larry adored his younger sister, and they cherished their childhood years in their hometown of DeSmet, SD, the famed setting of “Little House on the Prairie.”

From a young age, Larry demonstrated a strong work ethic. Larry began his working career as a child, pulling weeds for the neighbors, helping his parents on the family farm, selling Christmas trees, stocking grocery shelves, and running the projector at the local theater.

In 1956 Larry married Patricia Kovarik at the Church of St. Anthony, in Red Owl, SD, at which time he joined the Catholic Church. They were blessed with three sons, Mark, Mike, and Steve. As a busy Dad, Larry graduated from Black Hills State College with a business degree. He built a successful career in banking and finance. During the last three decades Larry has been an integral part of the family businesses, First Stop Gun and Sweeney Building Investments, working in administration and finance almost every day until his recent diagnosis at age 91.

An avid traveler, Larry visited many countries on six continents, enjoying adventures from riding a camel in Egypt and an elephant in Thailand, parasailing in Mexico, cruising down the River Seine, flying over Victoria Falls, taking a pilgrimage to Bethlehem, and walking the Stations of the Cross in Jerusalem, to name a few.

Larry was also passionate about theater, taking in productions from Black Hills Playhouse, and shows from Rapid City to Broadway in New York to Theatreland in London.

Larry was active in his community, serving on the Rapid City Common Council, the YMCA board, Downtown Rapid City BID board, and the Savings and Loan National Association board.

Larry was a proud member of Rapid City Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis and Moose Lodge.

Above all, Larry could best be defined as a man who deeply loved his family and friends.

He was famous for his annual birthday celebrations. At his last party, Larry invited 50 guests and 74 attended, a testament to his unwavering companionship and joy for life. Larry often said he lived a wonderful life with great memories.

Larry is survived by his wife Patricia Kovarik Blote and his three sons, Mark (Debra Watson), Mike (Laura), and Steve (LaRae). Larry’s six grandchildren, RoseMarie, Brigit, Teresa, John, Emily, and Grace were his pride and joy. Larry is also survived by his beloved sister, Gloria (late Allen), as well as many loved family members and dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Larry’s name to Hospice House, ℅ Stacy Lenards, 224 Elk St., Rapid City, SD 57701 or to your favorite charity.

Visitation will be from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home with a Vigil Service at 7:00 p.m.

Funeral Mass will be offered at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, May 18, 2026 at St. Therese the Little Flower Catholic Church (532 Adams St.).

Burial will be at Pine Lawn Memorial Park.