Larry Wayne Haugen, age 67, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025. He was born on September 26, 1958, at Naval Air Station Alameda in California—a true Navy brat from the very beginning, an upbringing that fostered a lifelong love for his country and deep respect for all who served.
Larry was the son of Obert “Red” Haugen and Anita Haugen, who both proudly served their country in the United States Navy. Alongside his sisters, Debbie and Linda, Larry was given the gift of seeing the world at a young age as the family moved with military assignments. Their journey included stations at NAS Alameda, NAS Point Mugu, NAS San Diego, Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni in Japan, and eventually settling at NAS Millington. Along the way, the family created many cherished memories, and throughout his life Larry treasured reminiscing about those experiences with his sisters.
Larry had a natural ability to make friends wherever he went, and sports were always an important part of his life. While Larry wasn’t exactly known for being tall, his above-average height in Japan made him a standout player on the high school basketball team. He continued playing basketball in Millington, TN where he earned the nickname “Bro-Hog.”
At 17, Larry completed high school early and set off for Whitewater, Wisconsin, to pursue his passion for history in college. He lived with his grandparents, Olaf and Hilda – – a time he was forever grateful for and held close to his heart. It was then that he became part of his extended family, growing very close to his aunts, uncles, and cousins, and creating family memories packed with laughter, card games, and enough jokes to spark friendly rivalries for years to come.
From a young age, Larry had a true passion for cooking—a talent everyone around him recognized and enjoyed throughout his life. At 18 years old, he began washing dishes at Crossroads for 50 cents an hour and worked his way into cooking roles at three local restaurants. That same strong work ethic led him to a 32-year career with the Whitewater Post Office, where he started as a mail carrier and rose to the role of Supervisor. Along the way, Larry gained invaluable mentors and formed lifelong friendships that he treasured deeply.
At 18 yrs old, Larry met Diane Heine who also worked at Crossroads. They were married in 1981 and in the years that followed, were blessed with two daughters, Katie and Jenny, who are so very proud to call him “Dad.” He was always ready with practical wisdom, reminding them to “tip well,” “always take the high road and trust that every challenge happens for a reason” and—perhaps most importantly from a father’s perspective — “nothing good happens after midnight.”
In 1993, Larry was fortunate to find his true soulmate when he met Nancy Funk. They married in 1998, after she helped rehabilitate his knee—the first of three knee surgeries—proving early on that she was in it for the long haul. Together, they shared 27 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with laughter, love, and cherished friendships that became like family. From a casual Friday night fish fry to adventures around the globe, they made countless memories with great family and friends. Some of Larry’s favorite destinations included yearly trips to Las Vegas, Door County and North Dakota walleye fishing, along with Myrtle Beach, Arizona, Scotland, and, of course, every golf trip shared with his buddies.
After Nancy and his daughters, nothing rivaled Larry’s love for golf. He would happily golf every day—and did just that during their winter stays in Florida. When he wasn’t on the golf course, he could usually be found watching sports, playing pickleball or drumming up a game of cards. Known affectionately as “Lucky Larry,” he had a knack for winning at cards and rarely passed up a poker tournament—even when games stretched into the early morning hours in Las Vegas. Larry loved Las Vegas so much that he planned special father-daughter trips for Katie and Jenny on their 21st birthdays.
Having raised two daughters, Larry was thrilled when Josh and Brandon became part of his life. At last, he had boys as sidekicks—every visit was filled with smoking meat, playing cards, a little pull-tab gambling, and tackling all the “handy-man” work without complaint.
Larry retired at the age of 55, allowing him and Nancy to continue traveling, golfing, and truly living life to the fullest. A couple years into retirement, Larry decided he wasn’t quite ready to slow down and began taking on small jobs for friends. He was especially proud to become an official referee and umpire for the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association.
In June of 2024, Larry was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor, Glioblastoma. He faced this battle with courage and determination, fully aware of the difficult odds. His greatest wish was to meet his first grandchild—a dream that was fulfilled when he was able to hold and love on his granddaughter, Oakley Grace, in November. Being her Grandpa brought him immeasurable joy.
Larry will be remembered as a devoted husband, inspiring father, proud grandfather, big-hearted jokester brother, and loyal friend. His legacy of love, laughter, and friendship will live on, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Larry loved good stories and great company. In that spirit, we invite family and friends to share a favorite memory of Larry, if you feel comfortable, as we celebrate his life.
Visitation to be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 North Newcomb Street, Whitewater, WI 53190, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Memorial Service to begin at 1:00 PM.
Please join the family at Willow Brook Golf Course, N9035 WI-89, Whitewater, WI 53190, for Larry’s favorite food and cocktails from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
Until we tee off again…
