Larry Cuklanz

Larry Marvin Cuklanz (“Mr. C”), 80, of Granite Falls, Minnesota, passed away on March 10th, 2026.

Larry was born in Spirit Lake, Iowa, but he was raised in Terril, Iowa. He dedicated his life to teaching and mentoring young people. Known to generations of students simply as “Mr. C” (because nobody knew how to pronounce his last name), he spent 58 years as a teacher and coached golf, basketball, and football. He loved working with young minds, and students were naturally drawn to his quirky personality, sharp wit, and encouraging spirit.

Larry proudly served in the United States Navy for four years. A lifelong athlete, he was a standout college basketball pointguard, known for his great ball handling and three-point shooting despite standing under six feet tall. He seemed able to learn almost anything, teaching himself sports as well as how to play the piano and guitar by ear.

He loved his family, his church, singing, golfing, and sweets – especially M&M’s. Larry had an infectious personality, a quick sense of humor, and a generous heart. He would help anyone who needed it without expecting anything in return. Many will remember his playful “you betcha” and the way he lovingly referred to his wife Nancy as his “better half.”

Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Nancy, his daughters Julie (Ian), Stefanie (Jerrod), and Kris (Ben), the light of his life, his granddaughter Maddie, his brother Rick (Cindy), and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters.

A funeral service will take place on Saturday, March 21, at 1:30 p.m., with visitation starting at 12:30 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church. There will also be a visitation at Wing-Bain Funeral Home on Friday, March 20, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., followed by a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. We invite you to share stories and memories during this time.

Mr. C spent a lifetime teaching others how to learn, compete, laugh, and care for one another – and if you asked him whether it was a life well lived, he’d probably smile and say “you betcha.”

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Building Bridges choir or the St. Paul Lutheran Church in his memory.