Larry Gerald Draper

Larry Gerald Draper passed away peacefully on February 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on December 16, 1945, in Iowa Falls, Iowa, to Gerald R. and Valva C. Draper, Larry lived a life full of adventure, hard work, and deep love for his family. On June 15, 1968, he married the love of his life, Cheryl Roby, in Santa Barbara, California. Together, they built a beautiful life and shared 56 and a half wonderful years of marriage.

Larry proudly served in the U.S. Army from January 1963 to January 1966, stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War. A natural leader, he became the youngest radar section leader and earned the rank of sergeant at just 18 years old—the youngest to do so.

A man of many passions, Larry and Cheryl owned and operated Diamond D Outfitters, a western store that brought them both great joy. In the last 20 years of his career, he worked as a specialty sales representative for Cronatron-Lawson, where he made countless friendships and was known for his gift of gab.

Larry cherished time with his family and took great pride in watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren compete in horse shows and other activities. He never missed a family gathering and always brought warmth and laughter. He was also a devoted fan of NASCAR, the National Finals Rodeo, camping, and riding horses on hunts and desert rides. In his quieter moments, he loved reading, seek-and-find puzzles, and playing solitaire.

Larry is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl; his children, Shari (Randy) Peterson, Cory, Ryan, and Kerri; his grandchildren, Colt (Autumn), Kaydee (Josh), and Danielle (Danny); and his seven great-grandchildren, Whitley, Addison, Holden, Stryder, Haizen, Lane, and Kannon.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Valva Draper; his siblings, Timmy, Nancy, Kathy, Linda, and Judy; and his grandson, Casey Draper.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to his hospice nurse, Camille, with Harmony Hospice, as well as the VA doctors and hospital staff, for their exceptional care and kindness.

Services to honor Larry’s life will be held at Larkin Sunset Gardens (10600 South 1700 East, Sandy, UT):

Viewing: Monday, March 10, 2025, from 6:00–8:00 PM

Viewing: Tuesday, March 11, 2025, from 11:00 AM-12:00 PM

Graveside Service: Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at 12:00 PM

Larry was a man who never met a stranger, a storyteller, and a family man through and through. His legacy of love, laughter, and hard work will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.