Larry Dee Higginson, 74, peacefully passed away on March 27, 2026, in Spokane Valley, Washington, surrounded by loved ones, following a six-year battle with cancer.

Born on February 24, 1952, in Walla Walla, Washington, to Jesse Dee and Lois Higginson (née Arterburn, later Avery), Larry was the third of four sons. He was raised in Pasco, Washington, where he graduated from Pasco High School. In his youth, he was the lead singer of the rock band Heavy West Incorporated, where he met the love of his life, Karen Anne (née Kalinowski), at a dance where the band was performing. Their connection was immediate, and they remained devoted to one another from that day forward.

In April 1972, at the age of 20, Larry enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He and Karen were married in Pasco on November 12th of 1973, and over the coming years they welcomed four children: Sarah Rose, Jeremy Dee, Jason Anthony, and Jonathan David. Over his distinguished 20-year military career, Larry rose through the ranks, serving in the Vietnam War and later in Japan at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, where he relocated his family for three years. He later spent a decade, and the remainder of his military service, stationed at Camp Pendleton in California. While serving, he also earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from National University.

Larry served as a Legal Services Specialist and NAFI Audit Technician, ultimately becoming Legal Chief and Head Financial Auditor for one of the Marine Corps’ largest installations. His service was recognized with numerous honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, two Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, six Good Conduct Medals, two National Defense Service Medals, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Navy Unit Commendation, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, and three Overseas Service Ribbons. He was also recognized with multiple Certificates of Commendation, Meritorious Masts, and Letters of Appreciation from senior Marine Corps leadership, reflecting his integrity and the trust placed in him for his military justice administration and financial oversight.

Following his honorable retirement from the Marine Corps as a Master Sergeant, Larry built a successful second career. He worked as a controller for a law firm, operated as a general contractor, and spent 21 years at Burton Construction, retiring as the Head of the Estimating department.

Larry spent the remainder of his life in Spokane Valley, Washington. He was deeply involved in his Catholic faith, leading music ministry for many years and also writing Christian music. A lifelong musician and craftsman, he had a passion for woodworking and took great pride in building and creating with his hands, as well as passing those skills and talents on to his children. He also enjoyed singing karaoke, playing darts and pool, camping, cooking, watching movies, and solving crossword puzzles.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Karen Anne Higginson; his brothers, Robert and Mark Higginson and their spouses and children; and by his children and their spouses: Sarah and Jason Davis, Jeremy and Kris Higginson, Jason and Emily Higginson, and Jon and Charlene Higginson. He is also survived by their 15 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and a broad community of friends and loved ones.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the near future. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family asks that you please spend time making something you find meaningful with your hands, sing with some friends, and raise a glass in Larry’s name.