Obituary - Larry Gene Scharfe

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." After three hard-fought battles with cancer Jesus called Larry home July 26, 2017. In Larry style, he waited until his family was together for one last sleepover before taking his last breath.

Larry was the definition of a kind, soft-spirited soul. He was born in Havre, Montana, Dec. 23, 1951, to Mildred and Kenneth Scharfe. Following graduation from Havre High, he spent two years at Montana State University-Northern and then finished a degree in microbiology at Montana State University in Bozeman. He put himself through college working for Duty Construction and delivering flowers for Milam Floral, where he saw the joy that flowers brought to people. Later in life, Larry attended the University of Washington Medex program to complete his dream of becoming a physician's assistant.

Larry dedicated his life to family, science and medicine. He spent over 40 years serving Billings Clinic both as a microbiologist and as a physician's assistant in neurology. His healing hands touched thousands of patient's lives and in his practice he lived by Mother Teresa's words, "Everytime you smile at someone it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing."

Larry was married to the love of his life, Marie, for 43 years. Together they had three children, Michael, Kevin and Katie. Larry loved any time spent with his family. He enjoyed watching new movies, flowers, gardening, and outdoor fun.

Through his suffering Larry's hope and faith in Jesus remained steadfast. Larry didn't waste words, in his final days he said "I love you" as often as he could. His legacy of love will reverberate through his kids and grandkids for generations to come.

Larry is survived by his wife, Marie, children, Michael (Lacey), Kevin (Leslie) and Katie (Brad) Smith; grandchildren, Noah, Oliver and Theodore on the way; Carolina; Katerina and McKinzee; mother, Mildred Scharfe and brother Dick (Vicky).

We would like to thank you for the outpouring of your love during this difficult season. Your words, cards, meals and flowers have meant the world to us.

A memorial service celebrating Larry's life will be held at Faith Chapel Saturday, July 29, at 11 a.m. Reception to follow.

Please consider making a donation to the Billings Clinic Foundation in Larry's name (For Patient Assistance); P.O. Box 31031, Billings, MT 59107 or the American Cancer Society; 1903 Central Ave., Billings, MT 59102.