Larry Martin Custer, 82, Dickinson, died on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at Benedictine Living Center, Dickinson. Larry’s Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m., Monday, February 17, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Dickinson with Fr. Keith Streifel as celebrant. Interment will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Dickinson. Visitation will be on Sunday from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Ladbury Funeral Service, Dickinson with a rosary and vigil at 4 p.m. with Deacon Ross Reiter as presider. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the Mass on Monday.
Larry Martin Custer was born February 14, 1942, to Frank and Elouise (Finch) Custer in Eugene, Oregon. After a few years, the family relocated to Belfield, ND where Frank’s parents, Mike and Anna, resided.
Larry attended farm schools and occasionally had extended stays with his grandparents. Often riding to school with his sister, Louise, on his treasured horse “Thunder.” He also attended Catholic Boarding School and eventually graduating from Belfield High School.
After high school, he went after his dream to fly and entered the Air Force, unfortunately due to medical reasons he was honorable discharged.
Larry married Ardella (Kuntz) Custer. The couple welcomed three sons before moving to Seattle to work as a machinist at Boeing, where they welcomed another daughter. Returning to ND, he owned his own diesel mechanic shop, also employed for Herschruds, as a mechanic at West Plains, Anfinson’s manager, and then as truck driver for many years.
Together the couple have six children, Lonny Francis (Bonnie) Custer, Leon Michael (Deb) Custer, Scott Gerard (Amanda) Custer, Stacy Veronica Custer, Shelby Mae Custer, and Shawn Martin (Shelby) Custer.
Larry served his Catholic faith fervently as an usher, Fourth Degree Knight-he cherished every KC event, including Rodeos at Home on the Range.
He excelled at every task and challenge he was awarded with far too many to mention.
Larry is survived by his wife of 63 years, Ardella; five children; 18 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; seven siblings and their spouses; numerous nieces and nephews. He cherished all.
No one in need crossed his path to depart without more than they could hope for.
