Larry David Spurbeck

Larry David Spurbeck, 86, of Moses Lake, Washington, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend. He touched the lives of many with his kindness, hard work, and enduring spirit. Larry was born on May 14, 1939, in Wilbur, Washington, the first son of David and Elizabeth Spurbeck. After spending his first year in Electric City, Washington, his family moved to Coulee City, where Larry spent his formative years and graduated from high school. Even then, Larry was consistent and a hard worker—whether on the baseball diamond playing second base and centerfield, or on the basketball court as a guard and consistent starter. His athleticism and determination helped his high school team reach the state tournament—a testament to his dedication. Beyond sports, Larry had a creative side. He played the trombone in the school band, enjoyed woodshop, and even took home economics. He spent three years working on his uncle Bill Sieg’s ranch, developing a strong work ethic and gaining practical life experience that would serve him well throughout his life. After high school, Larry attended Eastern Washington University for a year before proudly joining the U.S. Army. Serving in the First Division at Fort Hood, he was an armored personnel carrier driver during the Cuban Missile Crisis—a time of global tension. Though prepared to deploy, he was fortunate not to be called into combat. His military service remained a source of deep pride throughout his life. Larry loved nice cars and motorcycles. He often took his brothers and later his sons to stock car and motorcycle races. He enjoyed bowling, tennis, and always had a soft spot for cowboy boots—even if those around him didn’t always share his taste! He loved the outdoors—camping, fishing, and hunting —and passed those passions on to his sons through Little League, 4-H, and countless family outings. The family also took many memorable road trips to the Dakotas and Texas to visit family and friends—journeys filled with laughter, stories, and the simple joy of being together on the open road. While working at Boeing as a forklift driver, Larry was introduced to a lady in a yellow dress, Ruth Peters, by his brother, Ted, and by Ruth’s cousin, Marty. It didn’t take long for Larry to know he had found the love of his life. They were married just over a month later on September 13, 1969, and together they built a life centered on love, faith, and family. Their sons, Doug and Mark, brought Larry tremendous pride and joy. After being laid off in the Boeing downturn of 1971, Larry and Ruth moved to Moses Lake. Larry worked the rotating shifts at U & I Sugar while they began building their family home from the ground up. With little more than a newspaper ad, determination, and teamwork, they bought five acres of land and began assembling their new home—literally piece by piece. For a time, they lived in a 10-foot camper with Doug and Mark—who even had chickenpox during that time—and later moved into the unfinished basement. It wasn’t easy, but Larry never complained. His quiet strength, patience, and unwavering work ethic shone through every step of the way. Larry went on to work at Hanford as a boiler operator, where he remained for 23 years. He commuted 75 miles each way, day after day, and never shied away from the challenge. It was a demanding job, but Larry carried it out with grit and pride. Though Larry was a man of few words, his actions spoke volumes. He didn’t need to say much for people to understand his character—his calm presence, steady reliability, and quiet sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. In 1983, Larry and Ruth opened their hearts and home, welcoming 10-year-old Sean into their family as a son. Their home, in fact, became a place of refuge and warmth for many over the years—offering temporary shelter and love to nearly 60 people. Whether it was a friend, a relative, or someone simply in need, Larry and Ruth’s door was always open. Their generosity and compassion were unmatched. In 1987, the couple opened The Color Wheel and Custom Frame Art Gallery, pouring their energy and passion into a small business that reflected their creativity. In 1997, they created The Intimate Gardens—a beautiful country venue for weddings and family gatherings. Their home became not just a residence, but a place where memories were made and lives were celebrated. Larry also took great joy in watching his grandchildren grow. He followed them through their sports and activities, cheering from the sidelines with the same pride and enthusiasm that he showed for his own children. Larry deeply loved his brothers and cherished the memories they made together over the years. He and Ruth also built a wide circle of friends through their 56 years of marriage—friendships filled with laughter, support, and countless shared stories. Larry was preceded in death by his parents, a premature child, and his son Sean. He is survived by his wife, Ruth; sons, Doug and Mark (Ulrika); grandchildren, Nathan, Matthew, and Landon Spurbeck, Christopher, and Alex Claussen; brothers, Ted, Vic, Don, Rich, and Duane; and many extended family members and friends who were blessed to know him. Larry’s life was one of love, perseverance, service, and generosity. Though he was quiet by nature, his life spoke loudly through his actions. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the lessons he taught. Rest in peace, Larry. You were deeply loved, and you will be deeply missed. A celebration of Larry’s life will be held on Sunday, October 19, at Generation Church, 431 E. Brown Ave, Moses Lake, Washington with a viewing and appetizers from 11:30-12:30, a service from 1:00- 3:00, concluding with military honors. Interment will follow at Community Cemetery, and a dinner will be held at 5:00 at Generation Church.

Larry David Spurbeck

May 14, 1939 - October 5, 2025