Longtime Wolf Point Resident Lawrence Garfield Sr. Dies at 81

Garfield was a dedicated family man and community member who served the BIA Road Department for over 30 years.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Lawrence 'Larry' James Garfield Sr., a longtime resident of Wolf Point, Montana, passed away on February 23, 2026, at the age of 81. Garfield was born in Williston, North Dakota in 1945 and attended Flandreau Indian School, where he was a standout athlete. After serving in the U.S. Army, including a tour in Vietnam, Garfield returned to Wolf Point, where he spent over 30 years working for the BIA Road Department before retiring in 1998.

Why it matters

Garfield's passing marks the end of an era for the Wolf Point community, as he was a dedicated family man and community member who was deeply involved in supporting his grandchildren and extended family. His long career with the BIA Road Department also highlights the important role that government agencies play in providing employment and services to rural communities.

The details

After returning to Wolf Point, Garfield and his wife Shenna raised two children, Gwen and Lawrence Jr. The family was deeply involved in the Immaculate Conception Parish, where their children were baptized, received sacraments, and attended CCD classes. Garfield was also an avid hunter and fisherman who enjoyed taking family and friends on outdoor adventures.

  • Garfield was born on February 20, 1945 in Williston, North Dakota.
  • He graduated from Flandreau Indian School in 1964.
  • Garfield joined the U.S. Army in 1965 and served a tour in Vietnam.
  • Garfield and his wife Shenna married on April 6, 1968 in Louisville, Kentucky.
  • Garfield worked for the BIA Road Department for 31 years before retiring in 1998.

The players

Lawrence 'Larry' James Garfield Sr.

An 81-year-old longtime resident of Wolf Point, Montana who worked for the BIA Road Department for over 30 years before retiring in 1998.

Shenna Lou Richards

Garfield's wife, whom he married in 1968.

Gwen

Garfield's daughter.

Lawrence James Garfield Jr.

Garfield's son.

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The takeaway

Garfield's life and legacy in Wolf Point exemplifies the important role that long-serving community members play in providing stability, support, and leadership in rural areas. His dedication to his family, his faith, and his work with the BIA Road Department made him an integral part of the Wolf Point community for over 50 years.