Larry Gene Beene

Larry Gene Beene was born on August 2, 1949, in Madera, California, and passed on December 14, 2015, in Auburn, California, surrounded by loving family. Larry married Penny Nolan on October 12, 1996, in Lake Tahoe and celebrated 19 years of marriage. Larry is preceded in death by his parents Gladys Ruth Wilson and Welton Marion Beene. He is survived by his beloved wife Penny, and his brother Gary (Paula) Beene of La Grande, California. Sons: Adam (Jill) Beene of Grass Valley, California, Andrew Beene (Desa) of Grangeville, Idaho, and Joshua Beene of Merced, California. Daughters: Annie Nolan (Garrett Hendrickson) of Newcastle, California, Jennifer Oxley of Victorville, California, and Carey (Pat) Bussey of Granite Bay, California. Grandchildren: Andrew Beene and Chance and Dash Allright; Jessica and Cash Beene; Luke and Xavier Hendrickson; Claire and Emma Oxley; and Luke, Levi, Caitlyn, and Cameron Bussey. Larry also left many other close family members (uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins), and friends whom he dearly loved.

As a young boy, Larry grew up in the Madera/Merced area and loved playing in the fields, swimming in local water holes, and shooting marbles with his brother gary. Larry and Gary were very close throughout the years, and were raised to have a strong faith in the Lord. Larry loved to play the guitar and the piano, and especially enjoyed singing gospel songs, most of which he knew by heart. Larry was fun-loving and was always the life of the party, but when times were tough, he always returned to his Chriatian roots.

Larry worked full-time for Safeway while attending Merced High School. Shortly after graduating in 1967, he followed his father's footsteps, and began working for Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) as a Lineman and Construction Foreman for over 43 years. Larry worked in a variety of locations throughout California, including: Merced, Crockett, Richmond, and San Francisco. He relocated to Auburn in 1993 and continued his PG&E career until retirement.

Larry was an avid golfer and successfully played in many local tournaments. He particularly enjoyed golfing with his sons on week-ends, and teaching his young grandsons the game. He was especially proud to participate in golfing sessions at The Ridge Golf Club, and in several annual overnight tournaments. Larry's golfing skills were exceptional, and although at times the competition was fierce, the game was always played in fun and with good sportsmanship. The day's highlights were usually recapped with exaggerations and laughter between Larry and his golfing buddies at the end of the day. During Larry's recent illness, the love between him and his friends was very evident, and he considered them as family. Larry had a smile for everyone, and often said, "The sun will always come up in the morning," when his family or friends needed encouragement.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on Wednesday, January 6, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. at the Crossroads Church, 10050 Wolf Road, Grass Valley, California. A reception will follow at The Ridge Golf Club, 2020 Golf Course Road, Auburn, California, from 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Donations can be made to Sutter Auburn Faith Hospice.