Larry Marshal Vastbinder, 83, was born April 25, 1943, in Benicia, Calif., and died Sept. 1, 2026.
A beloved presence to many, he will be remembered with enduring respect and gratitude by all who knew him. He resided in Mariposa.
Larry previously lived in Bakersfield for 23 years, a chapter of life that reflected his steady devotion to home, work and the people around him.
Over the years, Larry gave his time and effort to work that was both practical and meaningful. He was part of Western Auto (Family Business), served with the Mariposa Road Department and later worked for Sierra Telephone from Sept. 9, 2009, until his retirement.
Through each role, he carried himself with quiet reliability and a consistent sense of purpose.
Larry is survived by his wife, Elaine Marie Ernst; his children, Kim Marie Gurden, Vicki Michele Thompson, Nancy Lynn Cousland and Susan Elizabeth Apodaca; 10 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents Bo and Florence Vastbinder, and Thomas and Anna Hearron; and his parents, Harold Freeman Vastbinder and Vera Belle Hearron. He is also preceded in death by his siblings Eugene Wendel, Betty Roberta, Richard Dale, William Leroy and Harold Freeman Jr.
In his personal time, Larry found enjoyment in simple pleasures and familiar pastimes — horseshoes, hunting, fishing and golfing with his brother in laws.
He also took delight in collecting, embracing it with a lasting joy that spoke to his appreciation for the things that caught his interest and held a story of their own.
Larry’s faith and community ties were important to him. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church (Knights of Columbus). In Lieu of flowers contributions can be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, P.O. Box 215, Mariposa, CA 95338 and Towers to Tunnels. Offering his presence and support in ways that reflected a life rooted in commitment and care for others.
Private graveside service will be held at a later date.
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