Larry Byron Balderston

Larry Byron Balderston, age 84, of Fort Collins, Colorado, passed away peacefully at home on October 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and children. Larry was born on December 17, 1941, in Edgewater, Colorado, to Lawrence Byron Balderston and Myrtle Verna Marie Johnson. He graduated from Lakewood High School in 1960 and continued his education at the Denver Electronic Technical Institute, where he studied for two years. In January 1964, Larry enlisted in the National Guard and proudly served for six years. Throughout his life, Larry held a variety of positions, including serving as an Adventist Ranger at Glacier View Ranch and later as a Safety Inspector for Hewlett-Packard. Whatever role he held, Larry was known for his strong work ethic, dedication, and integrity. Music was one of Larry's greatest passions. He began studying and playing music at the age of six and continued until his final days. A gifted musician and songwriter, he wrote and recorded hundreds of songs, many of which reflected his deep faith and love for the Lord. On July 15, 1967, Larry married Stephanie Ann Olsen, the mother of his six children. He was a devoted and loving father to Roseana Kraft (Russell), Christopher Balderston (Sheri), Charles Balderston (Somer), Spring Varra (Jake), Autumn Hutchins (Bobby), and Shylo Harris (Dan). Larry was blessed with many grandchildren: Anthony, Kassy, Cody, Brady, McKenzie, Tristin, Kale, Brianna, Savanna, Kailen, Thomas, Kyle, Tyler, Leah, Lexi, Cheyenne, Austin, Daniel, and Eli, as well as Lakota. He was also the proud great-grandfather of Landon, Henry, Colt, Paisley, MaKenna, Caden, Cooper, Clayton, Quinn, and Calum, with two more great-grandchildren, Emersyn Kate and Sutton Joel, expected soon. On October 29, 1989, Larry married the love of his life, Marjorie Ann Bonnema. Through this marriage, he was blessed to love and cherish his bonus children, Paul (Bethany) and Ruth (Ryan), along with their children: Mia, Kyleigh, McKayla, Addison, Karlee, Weston, Aedon, and Braedon. Together, Larry and Margie shared 37 wonderful years of marriage and built a home grounded in faith, love, laughter, and devotion to Jesus. Larry taught his children and family the importance of hard work, kindness, and compassion. He often lived by the words of John 13:34: “Love one another as I have loved you.” His faith, generosity, and gentle spirit left a lasting impact on all who knew him. Larry is survived by his brother, Lawrence Byron Balderston Jr. ("Sonny"). He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandson, Caedon; and his siblings, Chas Edward, Evelyn Simpson, Carson Simpson, Theodore "Ted" Balderston, and Lynn Balderston. A private family gathering will be held at Larry's home following the service. Larry's legacy of faith, music, love, and service will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and all who were blessed to know him.