Larry William Muller, age 69, passed away on August 24, 2023, in Sioux Falls, S.D., surrounded by his loved ones, following many years of serious and painful health issues.  Larry was born in Sioux Falls, S.D. on March 19, 1954, to parents William Muller and Veronica (Fitzgerald) Muller. Larry started his elementary education in Wasta, S.D., where he attended kindergarten and first grade, while his father worked road construction. In 1961, the family moved to Beresford, S.D., where Larry began second grade and continued with his schooling until graduating from high school in 1972. Last summer he enjoyed the fun of celebrating with his classmates their 50-year class reunion.

Following high school graduation, he and his lifelong best friend, Ray Boden, set off on an adventurous road trip to California. While en route, they experienced the historic Rapid City flood of 1972 while camping in the Black Hills. After this graduation trip, Larry moved to Denver, CO., where he worked road construction for a year before moving back to South Dakota. At this time, he accepted a position with East River Electric.

While living in Sioux Falls, S.D., he and Debra Truman, who were high school classmates, began dating. Although they went through all their years of schooling together, they only had one date in high school, which was their sophomore prom. On September 6, 1974, Larry and Deb were married in the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Beresford. Following their first year of marriage, they moved to Madison, S.D., where Larry continued working for East River Electric.

In 1976, Larry and Deb had their firstborn child, a son, Bradley Jason. When Brad was 6 months old, they made the decision to return to Beresford and open a Big A Auto Parts & Service store, in partnership with Larry's parents. The business opened on a below-freezing day on January 14, 1977, in a store on the west end of Truck Towne Plaza. It was Brad's first birthday. Larry would never forget that they took in only $11.00 the entire first day, thinking for sure his family was going to starve to death. After one year at Truck Towne, they relocated to the south end of downtown Beresford.  In 1989, Larry and Deb bought out Larry's parent's share of the business and formed a sole proprietorship.

In 1978 a daughter, Jillianne Marie, was born, and in 1981 a son, Lucas Truman was born. From these 3 children, 10 grandchildren were added to their family. These children brought Larry his greatest joy in life. True happiness to Larry was watching his grandchildren participate in all their activities, from band and vocal concerts to football games, or a round of golf. He very much was looking forward to watching his grandson, Austin, play his senior year of football, Maddie her first year of volleyball, and Maiya her first year of collegiate golf, Gavin in swimming and Arya in gymnastics.

In 2013, Muller Auto Parts & Service moved to its current location. Larry, Deb, Brad, and many others spent countless hours tearing out the bowling alley, and Larry and Deb painted the entire interior building themselves. The only original part of the building is the U.S. flag which still hangs in its original location. Three years after enjoying working in his new store building, Larry developed multiple health issues due to his rheumatoid arthritis. Following a back surgery in 2016, he developed septic shock. Due to a multitude of health complications, he was never able to return to the work he loved so dearly.

In addition to working hard to support his family Larry was always ready to lend a hand, whether it be to a neighbor, friend or his community.  For many years he was a member of the Beresford Fire and Rescue Squad, having gone on many runs. He also volunteered for numerous activities that his children were involved in, including athletic events, and, having been a Boy Scout himself, he helped out with many Scouting activities. His favorite was always the Pinewood Derby races. He loved helping make the cars. Larry also was an active member of the Beresford Booster club, having served as President for one year.

Larry is survived by those who loved and cherished him. His wife, Deb, and his children, Brad (Noelle) in Beresford; Jill (Michael) Danahay in Omaha, NE., Lucas (Amber) in Madison, SD, and 10 grandchildren: Ally, Jaden, Maiya, Skye, Ryker, and Aurmoni Muller; Austin and Maddie Danahay; and Gavin and Arya Muller. Also surviving are his mother, Veronica; 3 sisters: Jean (Richard) Geraets, Donna (Rick) Mertz, and Laura (Ron) Fergeson; 2 brothers-in-law, Bob (Ranae) Truman and Bill (Susan) Truman; his lifelong friend Ray Boden and his wife Karen as well as many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.

Preceding him in death were his father, Bill, and his brother Randy. Also preceding him in death were his mother-in-law, Donna Truman, his father-in-law, Elwood Truman, his brother-in-law, Jim Truman, and sister-in-law Deb Truman.

Blessed be Larry's Memory.

Funeral services will be 11AM Tuesday, August 29, 2023 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Beresford with visitation one hour prior to the service. Services will be live streamed at: facebook.com/emmanuel.lutheran.beresford