Larry Kendall VanGundy, a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend, peacefully passed away at Boundary Community Hospital on March 29, 2025, at the age of 83. He was surrounded by the love of his family, who will forever cherish the memories they created together. The family will be having Celebration of Life from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 14, at the Boundary County Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall.
Larry was preceded in death by his mother, Velma Rocks; his sisters, Dorothy Delcomte and
Ellen Grosjean; and his brother, Steve VanGundy.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Alice VanGundy, brother Ron VanGundy (Connie), sister, Shelley Rocks (Denny), daughter Tara Smith (Chad), and son Todd VanGundy (Allie), and his daughter Karlyn Shannon from a previous marriage. Larry was also a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren.
Larry was born on March 11, 1942, in Careywood, Idaho, to Velma and Rex VanGundy. Larry later moved to Sandpoint with his mother and siblings where he attended school and graduated from Sandpoint High School. Larry never missed a Friday night Bulldog football game.
He began his career as a barber right after graduation, but his passion for education led him to pursue further studies at Spokane Community College and Eastern Washington University, where he earned his degree in teaching.
In 1969, Larry married Alice Robinson and moved to Bonners Ferry, where they resided for 55 years. He dedicated 32 years of his life to teaching fifth and sixth grades at Valley View Elementary. His students adored him, and he was known for his engaging teaching style and his ability to make learning fun.
Larry had a special talent for teaching his students how to play chess, a skill that many of them fondly remember.
Outside the classroom, Larry was a man of many interests. He loved golfing, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, riding four-wheelers, and even the simple joy of gathering firewood, often exclaiming, “That’s some good wood!” to his son Todd and daughter-in-law Allie. His adventurous spirit and zest for life was infectious, and he created countless cherished memories with family and friends.
In recent years, Larry faced the challenges of dementia, but his humor and playful nature remained a source of light for those around him.