Lawrence Anthony Preso

Lawrence Anthony Preso, 90, of Walla Walla passed away Aug. 12, 2014, at Providence St. Mary Medical Center with his family at his side.

Larry was born April 10, 1924 to Umberto and Santa (Pontesilli) Preso in Walla Walla. He was the second oldest in a family of seven children. He attended St Patrick’s school and graduated from the eighth grade. He went to work on the family farm.

On Sept. 21, 1944, Larry was inducted into the Army. He served in the 182nd Infantry Americal Division. He earned the Army of Occupation Medal (Japan), Meritorious Unit Award, and Philippine Liberation Medal with one Bronze Service Star, Purple Heart, Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and Victory Medal. Larry made it a priority to stay up-to-date with current events and enjoyed political discussions with anyone who was interested and brave enough for a good debate.

On Dec. 16, 1947, Larry married Mary Bughi and they shared 67 years of marriage together. They had three children, Janice, Larry Jr., and Lisa. He was a dedicated husband and father.

Larry began his farming career with his father. In 1965, he branched out to the family farm on Pranger road in Walla Walla. Those who were fortunate enough to know Larry admired his dedication, integrity and perseverance. He never stopped farming. His crops over the years included the Walla Walla Sweet Onion, asparagus, cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, carrots and wheat. Larry enjoyed travel and history, and was able to travel to Italy and meet with relatives there. Larry enjoyed dancing with his wife, and was the life of the party. He enjoyed spending time with his two grandchildren, and has one great grandchild on the way. Larry was a lifetime member of St. Francis Catholic Church, volunteer Fireman District #4, Walla Walla Gardner’s Association, Italian Heritage Association of Walla Walla, Walla Walla Farmers Co-op, Walla Walla ELKS Lodge, VFW, and the National Rifle Association.

Larry is survived by his wife, Mary; two children, Janice Preso and Lisa Reinhardt (Marty); two grandchildren, Crystal and Justin Chiemwichitra all of Walla Walla; one brother, Joe Preso of Enterprise, Ore.; and sister, Lucy Ann Preso of Deming, N.M. His parents; his son, Larry Jr.; two sisters, Mary and Margie; and two brothers, Louie and baby Umberto, preceded Larry in death.

A special thank you to Dr. Paul Parker and to all who patiently and compassionately participated in the care of Larry at Providence St. Mary Medical Center. Larry will be missed, but never forgotten by his family and friends.

Rosary services will be recited at the chapel of Herring Funeral Home on Friday, Aug. 22, 2014, at 6 p.m. A private family interment to be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Francis Catholic Church or the Blue Mountain Humane Society through Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W. Alder, Walla Walla, WA 99362.