Lawrence "Larry" R. Bentcik, 85, a longtime resident of St. Maries, Idaho, passed away on September 15, 2026. He was born to Carl Jr. and Frances Bentcik on March 7, 1941, in Deer Lodge, Montana.

As a young man, Larry relocated to St. Maries, where he met the love of his life, Margie Bentcik. They were married on May 21, 1966, and shared 57 wonderful years together. Together, they raised their two sons, Jimmer (Jim) and Jay Bentcik, in the community they both cherished.

If you knew Larry, you knew how deeply he loved St. Maries. He was incredibly proud to call it home and wanted everyone to experience all that this special community had to offer. Larry and Margie were devoted Lumberjack fans and supported their community in countless ways. He loved sharing his enthusiasm for St. Maries with everyone he met. Larry was generous, welcoming, and a friend to all.

Larry had a lifelong love for the outdoors and the adventures that came with it. He was an avid hunter, trapper, and cougar hunter who spent countless hours in the mountains and on the trails doing what he loved. His mules were an important part of his life, and he devoted much of his time to guiding, training, and working with them. Among them, his beloved mules Tammy, Annie, and Jake held a very special place in his heart. Those who knew Larry know that some of his happiest days were spent outdoors, in the saddle, surrounded by the mountains he loved.

For decades, Larry was the owner of St. Maries Realty, leaving a lasting legacy in the community. He loved making deals and looked forward to going into the office every day. Through his work, he built countless friendships and helped many people find their place in the community he cared so deeply about.

Larry also had a creative side. He loved drawing and was a frequent contributor to the local paper, The Gazette Record, particularly through the letters to the editor. Many people have likely received a copy of the book of poems he wrote and shared over the years. He had a natural gift for words and for putting his thoughts and feelings onto paper in a meaningful way. His laughter, always accompanied by a smile, was unmistakable, and its echo will be remembered throughout the community.

Larry's life was one of family, lasting friendships, community, adventure, and an unwavering love for the outdoors and for his beautiful wife, Margie. He lived a life full of stories—and thankfully, he leaves behind many people who will continue telling them for years to come.

Larry is survived by his children Jim (Kim) Bentcik of St. Maries, Jay Bentcik of St. Maries, and Denise Bentcik of San Diego, CA; sister Caralyn (Connie) Olson of St. Maries, ID; 4 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Margie, his parents and his brother Edward Bentcik.

Larry's life will be celebrated at the St. Maries Nazarene Church Gymnasium on October 2, 2026 at 2:00 pm with Pastor Adam Jensen officiating. A gathering of family and friends to share a meal will follow at the Eagles Lodge in St. Maries. Larry will be laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery.  Memorial donations can be made to the St. Paul's Lutheran Church – 130 S. 10 ^th Street - St. Maries, ID 83861, St. Maries Veteran's Outreach - 534 Main, St. Maries, ID 83861, or Upriver Saddle Club - PO Box 164, Santa, ID 83866.