Lawrence "Larry" Okroi 65, of Roslyn died Sun., Jan. 24 at Avera Milbank Hospital.

Larry was born on March 17, 1950 to Benedict & Jeanette (Gaikowski) Okroi on the farm in rural Roslyn. He attended country school for a few years before transferring to St. Joseph's School in Grenville until the 8th grade. He graduated from Roslyn High School in 1968.

Larry was a member of the National Guard between 1968-1974 during which he was active in the relief efforts of the Rapid City flood in 1972.

On October 14, 1978 he married Rosemarie "Rosie" Schmig in Roslyn. They made their home in Roslyn where he established and operated Okroi Trenching until he suffered a heart attack in 2005. In 2008, Larry moved into Golden Living Center in Milbank.

Throughout his life he enjoyed collecting tools, fixing machinery and cars, and restoring his Ford 8N "lil mule" tractor. His grandkids brought him entertainment and joy in the nursing home.

Grateful for having shared his life is his Mother; Jeanette Okroi of Grenville, one son; Sam (Rebekah) Swanson of Roslyn, two daughters; Sara (Kent) Lorensberg of Roslyn, Barb (Justin) Niles of Webster, 7 grandchildren; Jill Swanson, Danielle Swanson, Darius Swanson, Haley Lorensberg, Jaden Lorensberg, Ava Niles and Huxley Niles, and 3 brothers; Dennis (Darla) Okroi of Grenville, Kenny (Roseanne) Okroi of Grenville, Henry Okroi of Roslyn and one sister; Susan (Cory) Liknes of Grenville.

He was preceded in death by his father Benny and wife Rosie.