Lawrence “Larry” Beckley

Lawrence “Larry” Beckley, 72, of Harshaw, passed away on June 1, 2026, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. He was born on July 21, 1953, in Rhinelander, the youngest son of John and Doris (Retherford) Beckley.

Larry was a 1971 graduate of Rhinelander High School. Shortly after graduation, he made his way to Milwaukee, where he worked at Central Steel and Wire Company and welcomed three daughters into the world. In the early 1980s, he returned with his family to Harshaw, the place he had called home since childhood. He later worked at Webster Well Drilling for a number of years before his health forced him into early retirement.

In his younger years, Larry enjoyed gardening, hunting, and fishing. NASCAR was a fixture in his home throughout his life, and if you stopped by, chances are it was on the television. As rheumatoid arthritis made the outdoor hobbies harder over time, he could often be found keeping his friend Jay company out at the garden.

Larry had good people around him throughout his life, and those friendships carried him through more than he would have ever admitted.

Larry is survived by his daughters Maggie (Bud) Schmidt and Lindsey (Kris) Kennedy, both of Rhinelander; his grandchildren Mikhail, Lisa, Joe, Carly and Josie; his siblings Terry (Barb) Beckley, Corie (Bob) Kettner, Debra Lehne and Dixie (Sparky) Stimart; many nieces and nephews; and other extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Doris Beckley, and his youngest daughter, Amy Woodruff.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the nursing staff at Aspirus Wausau Hospital for the compassionate care shown to Larry during his final hours.

Visitation for Larry will be held on Monday, June 15, from 9 to 11 a.m. with memorial services following at 11 a.m., all at the Carlson Funeral Home. Interment will follow in the Union Grove Cemetery in Harshaw. You may leave your private condolences for the Beckley family at www.carlsonfh.com. The Carlson Funeral Home, 715-369-1414, is serving the Beckley family.