Larry Handy, Beloved Montana Rancher, Dies at 67

Longtime Flaxville resident was known for his storytelling, rodeo skills, and dedication to family

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Larry Richard Handy, a 67-year-old resident of Poplar, Montana, passed away on February 6, 2026 at his home. Handy grew up in Flaxville as the oldest of three siblings and spent much of his life working as a farmer and rancher in the area, raising a family and pursuing his passion for rodeo. He was remembered for his storytelling abilities, involvement in his children's activities, and love of the outdoors and Fort Peck Lake.

Why it matters

Handy's life embodied the values and traditions of rural Montana, where family, community, and a connection to the land are deeply cherished. His passing marks the end of an era for his hometown of Flaxville and the surrounding region, where he was a beloved figure known for his warmth, humor, and dedication to the ranching lifestyle.

The details

After attending Dawson Community College, Handy returned to Flaxville and worked a variety of jobs over the years, including at Garberg Ranch and in the oil field. In 1990, he married Lauri Ralston, and they had three children - Wyatt, Ty, and Ashton. Handy spent many years farming and ranching south of Brockton before moving upriver to his dream home overlooking the Missouri River in 2009. He was an avid roper and rodeo fan, building a roping arena at his home that was later converted into a feedlot pen by his sons. Handy also had a love for boating on Fort Peck Lake, though he preferred to stay under the canopy rather than in the water.

  • Larry Richard Handy was born in Flaxville, Montana.
  • Handy graduated from Flaxville High School in 1977.
  • Handy married Lauri Ralston on October 6, 1990.
  • Handy's first son, Wyatt, was born in 1992, followed by Ty in 1995 and daughter Ashton in 1997.
  • Handy passed away at his home in Poplar, Montana on February 6, 2026.

The players

Larry Richard Handy

A 67-year-old resident of Poplar, Montana who spent much of his life working as a farmer and rancher in the Flaxville area. He was known for his storytelling abilities, involvement in his children's activities, and love of the outdoors and rodeo.

Lauri Handy

Larry Handy's wife of 35 years, with whom he raised three children - Wyatt, Ty, and Ashton.

Wyatt Handy

Larry and Lauri Handy's eldest son.

Ty Handy

Larry and Lauri Handy's middle child and second son.

Ashton Beery

Larry and Lauri Handy's daughter, described as Larry's 'little girl' whom he doted on.

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What they’re saying

“One of his many talents was competing in the hog boarding competition at the Richland Country Fair every year. Even after his own children had graduated, he continued supporting nieces, nephews and his special neighbor kids in all their activities.”

— Lauri Handy, Larry Handy's wife

“He had a way of making people laugh, feel welcome, and he was never short of words.”

— Lauri Handy, Larry Handy's wife

What’s next

In Larry Handy's memory and to honor his legacy, his family will brand his last set of calves on May 23 at the family ranch, to celebrate a truly well lived life. All family and friends are invited to attend.

The takeaway

Larry Handy's life embodied the values and traditions of rural Montana - a hardworking rancher and family man who found joy in simple pleasures like rodeo, storytelling, and time spent on the land. His passing marks the end of an era for his hometown of Flaxville, where he was remembered as a beloved figure known for his warmth, humor, and dedication to the ranching lifestyle.