Claude Leon VanDetta "Larry" Claude Leon VanDetta "Larry" peacefully returned to his Heavenly Father on April 18, 2010. He was born to Peter Rosenkrantz and Lily Higley on May 6, 1925 in Wellington, Utah. After his father's death, his mother married Michael Charles Van Detta, who was a good step father to Larry. He joined the army at 18 and served bravely during World War II as a paratrooper in the 182nd Airborne and received a Purple Heart among other medals. Five years later he married his sweetheart Emma Jean Lauritzen on November 18, 1950 and adored her for the 59 years they were together. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. They are proud parents of four wonderful children: Gaylynn Holt, Kim Lefler (Kevin), James VanDetta (Becky), and Brian VanDetta (Angeles). They have 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Larry was a family man and loved to take his family camping and hiking, water skiing and on fun trips. He loved nature and being outdoors. He was always honest and a hard worker. He taught his children how to work and live by example. Larry went into real estate and was a successful salesman and broker, he started VanDetta Real Estate. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Larry and Jean were called to serve a Temple Mission in the Jordan River Temple and continued working there for 10 more years. He also held various positions in the church and was a beloved scout master. He loved his wife, children, church and country. Larry and Jean have had a special group of friends for 55 years, they are a special part of their lives and like family to them. Funeral services will be held Friday, April 23rd at 11:00 a.m. at Mindi Meadows Ward, 13400 South 2700 West, Riverton. Viewings will be Thursday, April 22nd from 6-8 p.m. at Jenkins-Soffe South Valley, 1007 W. South Jordan Pkwy (10600 S) and one hour prior to the services at the church. Interment Riverton City cemetery. We would like to express our thanks to everyone who cared for Larry in his last years. Online condolences may be shared at www.jenkins-soffe.com

Published in Salt Lake Tribune on April 21, 2010