Larry Dean Haste

Larry Dean Haste, 75, of Checotah, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2025, in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Born on December 23, 1949, in Bedford, Indiana, he was the loving son of Walter Lee and Christeen (Bastin) Haste.

Larry's life was marked by love and service. He was united in marriage to Norma Ruth Craig on June 13, 1969, in Houston, Texas, and together they celebrated fifty-five years of a loving marriage full of adventure. Larry's dedication extended beyond his family. He honorably served in the United States Army, having been inducted on August 6,1970. During his time in Vietnam, he earned several accolades including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with two stars, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with a 60 device, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Air Medal, demonstrating his commitment to his country. He was honorably discharged on December 20, 1971. Many lifelong friendships were made during the year in Vietnam where brothers in arms put their lives in the care of each other. He served in the 1st Cav Division; Bravo Company 1/5 (Mongoose), 15th S&S Company, and A229 Assault Helicopter Battalion ( Black Bandits).

Professionally, Larry dedicated time to his students teaching and coaching boys basketball and baseball, and girls tennis at Seiling Public Schools, where he shared his passion for sports with young athletes. Larry made significant contributions working for Panhandle Eastern Pipe Line Company. His leadership, initiate, and dedication to continuous learning and improvement was instrumental in helping the company achieve and maintain Safety Excellence. After many moves that provided unique opportunities, he retired from PEPL after 32 years.

In his personal life, Larry enjoyed his time spent hunting, fishing, and woodworking. These hobbies reflected his love for nature and creativity. He was a devoted Christian and proud member of Eufaula First Baptist Church, finding community and fellowship there. He was a lifetime member of the VFW, and served in many leadership positions at the VFW Post 8798. He was a member of The Gideons International for forty years.

Larry is survived by his devoted wife, Ruth; his daughter Vicki Birkholtz and husband Todd of Arizona; his sons Freeman Haste and wife Kari of Missouri, and Ben Haste and wife Charla of Ohio; his sister Shirley Weems and husband Conrad of Louisiana; and a loving family of grandchildren: Hilary Smith and husband Adam, Chelsea Milner, Dylan Milner and wife Lacy, Charity Kuehl and husband Jamie, Kyle Haste, Devan Haste and wife Carly, Hope Jones and husband Tim, Alyssa Rodriguez and husband Vincent, and Chloe Haste; and eight great grandchildren.

Larry is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Ervin and Darrell Haste and 2 great grandchildren Fiona Saylor and Benjamin Kuehl.

His absence will be felt deeply by all who knew and loved him. Larry's legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support.

Memorial contributions for Larry can be made to The Gideon International, or any charity of your choosing.