Gary Ray Latta, 82

Gary Ray Latta, born March 25, 1943, in Harper, Kansas, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025, at the age of 82.

He graduated from Harper High School in 1961, married Carol Jennings in 1964, and served in the U.S. Army (active duty) from 1964-1967, including a year in Vietnam.

After his time of active duty, he worked on the Apollo 11 project in Tulsa, Oklahoma. In 1976, he relocated to Montana, where he worked for several years as a general contractor. While in Montana, he also served in the Army National Guard and Navy SeaBees.

Gary was a strong Christian who was passionate about serving the Lord by serving others. He was very involved in his church and supported overseas missions. In 2007, he had the opportunity to help build an orphanage in Tanzania, Africa, which was a highlight in his life.

Gary is survived by his wife Carol, daughters Colleen Minahan (Tim), and Cheri Shaw (Paul), and son Aaron Latta (Brandi), along with 17 grandchildren (including spouses) and four great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his sister Velda, his sister-in-law Sue, and dear friend, cousin, and mentor Norman Latta.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Verna Latta, and his brother Duane, and brother-in-law Gene Geller.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Veterans' Home in Butte for their faithful service and compassionate care for Gary.

Services for Gary Latta were held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Cardwell Church in Cardwell, Montana. Memorial contributions can be made in Gary's Honor through the Cardwell Church to Restoring Hope Nepal.