Obituaries : Larry Francis Frese

Larry Francis Frese, 84, of Chelsea, IA passed away July 5, 2025 at his home in Chelsea, IA surrounded by family. 

Larry was born February, 7, 1941 in Thorp, WI to Emmet and Esther (Jacque) Frese. After graduating from Thorp High School, Larry went out west to Oregon and Alaska for various jobs before enlisting in the U. S. Army. Achieving his Green Beret status as a member of the Special Forces, Larry served during Vietnam. Returning home to Milwaukee, WI; Larry met Doris Irene Hilligas and together moved to his hometown of Thorp. The couple married on July 10, 1971 at St. Paul's Lutheran Church. In 1973, they moved back to Doris's hometown of Chelsea, purchasing the home she grew up in. They owned and operated the Silver Dollar Sports Bar and Grill for 46 years while they raised their three children.

Larry liked to tinker; he was a jack of all trades but master of none. He looked forward to fishing trips to Canada, and enjoyed a cup of coffee and socializing with family and friends. 

Larry was always willing to be involved and help his community; he was member of the Chelsea American Legion, Fire Department and the City Council.

Larry is survived his children, Tracey, Emmet, Dorothy (Marybeth); grandchildren, Bo, Olivia, McKenna and Dalton; sister, Darlene Noah; brothers, Robert, Terry and Jerry Frese.

He is proceeded by his parents; wife, Doris; sister, Joann Dollen.

Burial is 10:00 a.m. Saturday July 19, 2025 at Rector Cemetery, Chelsea, IA with military honors. Memorial service is 11:00 a.m. at the Chelsea Hall with Celebration of Life to follow until 4 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family to be distributed though out the Chelsea community in memory of Larry and Doris. Online condolences can be made to the family at www.neuhausfuneralservice.com.