In Loving Memory of
Larry Paris

Lawrence (Larry) Philip Paris, 91

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Lawrence (Larry) Philip Paris, 91, of Littleton, Colorado, who left us on March 22, 2025, after living a long, rich, and deeply meaningful life.

Larry was born on August 12, 1933, in Boise, Idaho, to Ovel James Paris and Ruth Jane Waller. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Bruce Paris, and his sister Delores Wray.

Larry's early years were challenging. He lost his father at the age of four, and just a year later, the family ranch burned to the ground. He spent much of his youth moving from place to place, often caring for himself from a very young age. A story that captures both his resilience and optimism comes from when he was just 14 years old. Larry was living with his sister and her husband in married student housing at Boise State and after they moved away, Larry was left to live there on his own. That summer, he worked bagging groceries at the original Albertson's grocery store in Boise and fed himself with leftover food offered from his manager at Albertson's at the end of each shift. In true Larry fashion, he remembered that time not with bitterness, but with gratitude. He said it was the best summer of his life because he had a job and spent the summer playing baseball with his friends after work each day!

Larry proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1951 to 1959, rising to the rank of Signalman Third Class (SM3). During the Korean War, he was stationed aboard the USS E. L. Chandler (DD-717), where he played a vital role in communications and operations. His bravery and commitment were recognized with numerous decorations, including the National Defense, United Nations, Korean Service, and China Service medals, as well as a commendation for meritorious service.

Larry’s military service was defined by extraordinary courage and unwavering dedication. As part of the Shore Fire Control Party aboard the USS Chandler during combat operations in the Korean War, he often risked his life under intense enemy fire.

On the night of June 8, 1953, Larry embarked on a daring mission, navigating a small boat to within 500 yards of the enemy-held North Korean coast. Despite the ever-present danger of mines and shore batteries, he remained in position for over three hours. His quick thinking and skilled execution led to the detection and destruction of a large enemy train, a mission that showcased his remarkable courage, vigilance, and steadfast devotion to duty.

For his actions, Larry was commended by both his commanding officers and the Commander of the Pacific Seventh Fleet, earning the Commendation Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device—a rare honor recognizing meritorious service under direct hostile action, awarded only to those who willingly place themselves in harm's way to carry out their mission.

After his active duty in the Navy, Larry graduated from Boise State College with a major in business, then continued to serve his country and community as an elite Smokejumper with the U.S. Forest Service, continuing a life guided by service, hard work, and quiet integrity.

Based in McCall, Idaho, from 1954 to 1956, Larry was trained to parachute into remote, often dangerous terrain to battle wildfires at their source. The role demanded exceptional courage, physical endurance, and mental sharpness—all qualities Larry embodied. In addition to fighting fires, he learned to sew, repair, and meticulously pack his own parachute, a life-saving task requiring extreme precision and resourcefulness. His quiet resilience and calm under pressure made him a natural in one of the most demanding and dangerous firefighting roles in the country.

After serving as a Navy reservist, Larry was honorably discharged from the United States Navy on July 16, 1959, his legacy marked by years of honest, faithful service.

Larry went on to dedicate over 30 years of his professional life to Rockmont Envelope Company, later known as Mail-Well, where he was known for his dependability, humility, and strong work ethic. When he retired in 1999, he famously declared he would never wear a suit and tie again—a promise he mostly kept!

Larry was a lifelong sports enthusiast with a special passion for golf and a deep love of baseball and football. He spent countless hours on the golf course, forging friendships and creating joyful memories, and continued to play well into his 90th year. A devoted fan of the Colorado Rockies and the Denver Broncos, he cheered them on with pride. But it was his unwavering support of his grandchildren that meant the most to him—whether it was baseball, lacrosse, soccer, basketball, or swimming, Larry was always there, a constant and encouraging presence on the sidelines. His quiet strength, steady devotion, and boundless encouragement were a gift that his family will always treasure.

Larry was a cherished husband, father, and grandfather, whose love for his family was immeasurable. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Linda Schaller Paris; his children Leah Kimmerle (Brian), Lynne Paris Ray (Ben), and Lawrence Bradley Paris; his stepson David Conklin (Kathy); and his grandchildren Sierra Pouge (Eric), Kendra DeMark (Dominic), Skyler St. John, Hannah Buchenau (Jack Pantalena), Samuel Lawrence Buchenau (Alex), Henderson Paris Ray, as well as many great-grandchildren.

Larry will be remembered for his integrity, gentle sense of humor, unwavering commitment to service, and steady optimism. He extended kindness to everyone he met and left a lasting impact on all who knew him. His devotion to his family, his country, and to doing the right thing was the guiding force of his life. A true friend to many and deeply loved by all, Larry will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

A private burial will be held on June 24, 2025, at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, Colorado, followed by a celebration of Larry's life at his home among family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, Larry's family would like to suggest donating to M2M, a charity providing financial support to wounded veterans. Learn more about the charity here. Please name Larry Paris in the payment notes when donating.