In December 2024, Lois Ann Sickles preceded her beloved husband, Laren “Larry” James Sickles, who joined her in February 2025, as they crossed from this life to the next.
Lois was born in 1941 to Benjamin and Helen in Prosser, Washington, and was raised with her sister, Gloria, and brother, Marvin, in Cle Elum. She graduated from Ballard High School in Seattle in 1959. Six months later, she met the love of her life and remained by his side for 64 and a half years.
Larry was born in 1936 to George and Evelyn in Rapid City, South Dakota, and was raised with his three older brothers, Bob, Marv, and Ron, in Yelm, Washington. He graduated from Yelm High School in 1954. Larry served in Greenland with the U.S. Army and remained in the reserves while completing his studies at the University of Washington. During that time, he met Lois, and they married in July 1960.
Lois and Larry built an adventurous life for their family, living everywhere from Alaska to Florida. Lois enthusiastically supported Larry as he served in the U.S. Public Health Service in the Southwest and Alaska, retiring with the rank of captain.
After pursuing advanced education together, they continued their community service by supporting and mentoring young people and families in international service. After almost 50 years of serving others, they retired to Larry’s childhood home until their deaths, five weeks apart.
Larry and Lois were preceded in death by their siblings and an adopted son. They are survived by four children and three spouses, 12 grandchildren and their spouses, and eight great-grandchildren.
Lois and Larry will be interred in Yelm Cemetery in July 2025 at a family service.
Memorial donations in their name can be made to your local youth and family camp in support of their lifelong commitment to youth and family flourishing.
