Larry Dale Jilek, 75, Dickinson, died on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at CHI St. Alexius Health Bismarck with family by his side. A Celebration of Life Service for Larry will take place at a later date.
Larry Dale Jilek was born on November 15, 1950 in Dickinson to Steve and Laura (Kostelnak) Jilek. He grew up on a farm south of Dickinson at an early age where his tremendous work ethic was instilled. Larry attended school in South Heart.
He spent most of his life farming on various ranches in Montana and North Dakota. Larry enjoyed wheeling and dealing at auctions sales. His gift of gab found him arriving to a group of strangers and leaving with multiple friends.
Larry met Gwen Kostelecky at Woolworth’s in Dickinson. They were married on April 19, 1974 and during this union they had one daughter, Dana. They later divorced and he met Linda Ness. He enjoyed spending time with Dana, Kevin, and his grandkids. He had a brilliant mind when it came to helping his son-in-law, Kevin, tear apart tractors. He enjoyed helping his grandson, Declan, learn to drive a tractor. He would spend hours stoking the wood stove, along with directing everyone else how to manage the fire. His greatest delight was saving dollar bills to give to his grandson, Christian.
Larry is survived by his daughter, Dana (Kevin) Kirsch and their children, Kyla and Kindra Kirsch, Christian and Declan Avison.
He is also survived by his siblings, Betty Krauter, David (Darlene) Jilek, Bonnie (Jim) Peter, Maynard Jilek, Doug (Theresa) Jilek; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Larry was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Bob Jilek; and sister, Dolly Gilbertson; and brother-in-law, Al Krauter.
