Larry Jay Knaras' Obituary
Larry Jay Knaras, 61, of Taylorsville, Utah, passed away on Monday, January 29, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 11, 1962, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Maud Knaras (Perrenoud) and Henry Knaras. After receiving his GED, Larry enlisted in the US Army Reserves and served four years until he was honorably discharged.
Larry was a highly skilled chef with a true passion for the culinary arts and running restaurants. Throughout his career, he honed his craft and expertise, leaving a lasting impact on the industry. It was during his time working at ZCMI, one of the restaurants, that he met the love of his life, Charlene McLaughlin. They shared a beautiful marriage of 33 years, filled with love and cherished memories.
Larry's dedication and hard work led him to various opportunities, including his employment at Sleep Number for 17 years. He displayed his versatility and commitment by cross-training in different departments, showcasing his determination and adaptability. Through his unwavering work ethic, Larry eventually earned his way up to a fulfillment management position. His exceptional skills and leadership qualities earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues, and he formed lasting friendships wherever he went.
Larry will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched with his talents and warm personality. Larry loved life and cherished spending time with his family and friends. He had a great passion for bowling and participated in leagues and tournaments with his loved ones. His bowling skills were exceptional, and his throws would often result in pins exploding. Larry also enjoyed camping in his trailer in Salina and fishing, although he preferred catch and release. Occasionally, he would grill his catch and enjoy it with his loved ones. Larry had a remarkable fishing experience in Florida, where he made an unforgettable catch. On his last cast of the day, he reeled in a magnificent Marlin. This achievement brought him immense pride, and to commemorate the moment. Larry had the fish stuffed and mailed home. Today, it proudly hangs on the wall, serving as a reminder of his passion for fishing and the joy it brought him.
Larry was preceded in death by his father, Henry 'OPA' Knaras; son, Phillip Matthew McLaughlin; and mother-in-law, Loretta Radka. He is survived by his beloved wife, Charlene McLaughlin; daughter, Erin McLaughlin (Laura McLaughlin); grandson, Keegan McLaughlin; daughter, Kyra Rose Kelley (Jared Kelley); mother, Maud Knaras; brothers Russell and Jeffery Knaras; sister, Kelly Ciliberto (Tony Ciliberto). He also leaves behind numerous other cherished family members and friends, who meant the world to him.
A celebration of life for Larry will be held at 5462 Hews Place, Taylorsville, Utah, 84129, on Saturday, February 3, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, an organization that Larry felt strongly about.
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