Larry J. Sokoloski

Memorial Mass for Larry J. Sokoloski, 67, of Virginia, will be 11am Friday, September 15, 2017 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Virginia with Fr. Brandon Moravitz as celebrant. Friends may gather one hour prior to the mass at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred. Arrangements by Ziemer-Moeglein-Shatava Funeral Home in Gilbert. Larry died peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, September 9, 2017 at Essentia Health in Virginia, Minnesota. Larry was born November 21, 1949 in Virginia, Minnesota to Joseph and Antonia (Car) Sokoloski. He was a 1967 graduate of Mt. Iron High School and later worked for Duling Optical as an optician. He traveled around the country establishing optical stores on military bases until returning home in 1975 to manage the Virginia store. In 1977 he married the love of his life, Donna Stavnes and to that union, Steven and Michelle were born. In 1981 he began working for Christensen Parts Service (NAPA) as an outside salesman, where he earned the nickname “NAPA Larry”. Larry was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Mt. Iron where he served as usher until its closing. He was a member of the Virginia Rifle and Pistol Club for many years and was a proud member of the Mt. Iron-Buhl School Board for the past 22 years. He also served as a board member for the Iron Range Youth In Action. Larry was an avid outdoorsman and a loving husband and father. Survivors include his wife of 40 years, Donna; son, Steven of California; daughter, Michelle of Warroad; granddaughter, Karissa Sokoloski; brother, Joseph Sokoloski; several cousins, nieces, nephews and in-laws. He is preceded in death by his parents, sister and brother-in-law, Betty (Orlin) Ekeroth; nephew, Tim Sokoloski; In-laws, Alton and Chrystal Stavnes.