Larry Ternes Sr.

Larry (Hilarian) Ternes Sr., 95, Bismarck, passed away August 31, 2026. Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, September 4 at 11:00AM at Church of St. Anne. Visitation will be Thursday from 11AM to 1PM with a rosary at 1:00 PM at the Bismarck Funeral Home. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Larry’s life, sharing memories and honoring a man whose presence brought light and laughter into the lives of many.

Born on October 21, 1930, in the quiet town of Shields, North Dakota, Larry Ternes was a man whose life was marked by love, laughter, and an unwavering dedication to his family. The son of Anselm and Deonella (Braun) Ternes, Larry and Stella farmed in Shields for 41 years. Stella (Kramer) Ternes passed June 1, 2014.

Larry married Stella Kramer on August 23, 1954, in Raleigh, North Dakota. While farming, they raised wheat, cattle, hogs, and chickens and a large garden. Stella also taught school during those years.

Larry is fondly remembered by his surviving children: Jennifer Michie (Dan), Carolynn Ryan (Pete), Barbara Weekes (Francis), Larry Ternes, Jr. (Pam), Corin Lopez, Laureen Ternes (Jimmy), John Ternes (Lori), Alice Konieczny (Dave), Abraham Ternes, Edna Sanabia (Eric), and Audree Zander (Bob). His daughter, Rebecca Joy Paul, preceded him in 2012. All of his children would agree he taught us to work hard and most importantly, be honest and generous in all our endeavors. Larry’s legacy extends to his 24 grandchildren and 26 great -grandchildren.

For 41 years, Larry and Stella worked tirelessly on their farm in Shields, ND, where Larry was known not only as a farmer but as a skilled mechanic with a knack for fixing and inventing. His self-taught expertise in refurbishing antique engines and crafting innovative solutions left and indelible mark on those around him. His children fondly remember watching their father weld everything from wagons to front loaders, a testament to his ingenuity and resourcefulness.

Music was another passion that brought joy to Larry’s life. He was an accomplished accordion and piano player, known especially for his lively German polkas. In his younger days, Larry also played drums in a band, sharing his musical talents with the community.

Larry’s life was enriched by his passion for card games, his quick wit, and his treasure trove of funny stories from days gone by. His family often requested these stories, which he gladly retold and kept everyone entertained.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donation be made to Dakota Aged Iron Club, located at 2145 Missouri Loop N. in Mandan, ND 58554. This club was close to Larry’s heart, he was an honorary member and a valued mechanic they often called on to fix their antique engines and tractors.