In Loving Memory of Lawrence Riley Stilgebouer

May 8, 1932 - August 26, 2023

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of a true hero, Lawrence "Larry" Riley Stilgebouer, who departed this world on Saturday, August 26, 2023 at the age of 91. His legacy is a testament to a life well-lived, marked by dedication, generosity, unwavering love, and faith.

Larry dedicated his life to serving his country with honor, courage, and distinction. His unwavering commitment to duty earned him the respect and admiration of all who served alongside him. After 22 years, Lieutenant Commander "Stilge" retired. His loyalty to the Navy was matched only by his deep devotion to his family and faith.

As a generous giver, Larry touched countless lives with his acts of kindness and selflessness. He supported over 50 charities, in New Mexico and world-wide, over and above his regular tithing to New Life City Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

He gave faithfully to Jessup University, a private Christian university in Rocklin, California, for over 40 years, and was celebrated in the creation of the Stilgebouer Legacy Society, for those who choose to designate a charitable deferred gift through their estate in order to leave a Christ-centered legacy through their giving. His impact was immeasurable, leaving a true legacy of compassion and goodwill.

Above all, Larry was a faithful, selfless husband and Christ-follower. He is a shining example of what a husband should be. He was married to his true love, Dottie Stilgebouer for 35 years. They had two children, Debi and Ken, before Dottie passed away from cancer. In 1989 he married Sally Rawson and became a step-father to three children, Maria Spangler, Christian Sealand, and Ken Rawson. Sally succumbed to ALS in 2012, and left Larry a twice widower.

His unwavering faith in Christ guided his actions and inspired those around him to live with compassion, humility, and love. He copied the entire Bible in his own handwriting from 2002 - 2008 to refresh his knowledge and learn more from the Bible.

In the hearts of those who knew him, Larry will forever be remembered as a beacon of integrity, a symbol of selflessness, and a model of faith. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and the values he instilled in those fortunate enough to have known him.

Larry is survived by his third wife Donna Jennings; daughter Debi Stilgebouer; granddaughter, Jennifer Roman; great-grandchildren, Charise Ngo, Lilly Roman, Tyler Roman and Trevor Roman, and great-great-grandchildren, Henry Ngo and Madison Ngo; son, Ken Stilgebouer and his wife Julaine Benedict; granddaughter, Rhea Jurf and her husband Steve Jurf; great grandchildren, Nathan Jurf and Sloane Jurf; daughter, Maria Anderson Spangler and husband John Spangler; grandchildren, Samantha Anderson and Matthew Anderson (Kati); great grandchildren, Micah and Kallie; son to Christian Sealand; grandson, Jett Morales; son, Ken Rawson and wife Jen Rawson; grandchildren, Ciera, Noah Riley, Charis, and Maverick; and friends who will forever cherish the memories they shared. In honoring his legacy, let us strive to carry forward his spirit of service, generosity, and unwavering faith.

A celebration of Larry's life will be held on Saturday, October 14 , 2023 at Rio Rancho Presbyterian Church, 1004 24th St SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124 at 11:00 am. He will be laid to rest in Danbury, Nebraska next to his second wife, Sally, and his father, Cecil Stilgebouer and stepmother Ruth Stilgebouer. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Jessup University.

As we say our final farewell to this remarkable man, we take solace in the knowledge that his legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched. May his soul find eternal peace in the embrace of his Savior, and may his memory continue to inspire us all.

Rest in peace, Dad, your service to your country, your love for your family, and your unwavering faith will forever be etched in our hearts. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.