Larry Palen

Larry Palen, 80, of Bismarck, formerly of Mandan, passed away on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, in Bismarck.

A gathering of friends and family will be held from 4:00 - 6:00 P.M. Friday, September 11, 2026, at Weigel Funeral Home, Mandan. A celebration of his life and sharing of memories will begin at 6:00 P.M. Larry was born May 2, 1946, in Minot, North Dakota, the son of James and Fern (Hansen) Palen. He was raised and educated in Minot, graduating from Minot High School. Following high school, Larry began his lifelong career with the railroad.

While on a trip to Iowa, Larry met the love of his life, Karen Hurlbert. The two were married on August 5, 1965, beginning a marriage that would span more than six decades. They made their home in Minot before moving to Mandan in 1982, where they raised their family.

Larry dedicated 41 years to the railroad, eventually retiring as a Carman with BNSF in 2006.

Outside of work, Larry enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved to fish and especially enjoyed camping at Lake Audubon with friends. He also had a lifelong passion for boxing. From a young age, Larry loved watching fights and could often be found watching them whenever he had the opportunity. He would even rewatch old fights, enjoying them as much the second time around.

Larry will be remembered most of all as a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a man with a strong mind and an even stronger will. He was tough, determined, and, as those who knew him would say, "tougher than a boiled hoot owl." Larry was a great friend and co-worker.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Karen; daughter, Wendy (Robert) Bohrer; grandchildren, Dalton (Nicole) Bohrer, Dawson Bohrer, and Delaney Bohrer; great-grandchildren, Addison, Brynlee, and Carlyle; sister, Deborah Davis; sisters-in-law, Bertha Harper and Cindi Hurlbert; brother-in-law, Terry (Paula) Hurlbert; as well as several nieces and nephews and a host of extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Fern Palen; son and daughter-in-law, Dion (Mary); siblings, Judy and Gary and brother-in-law Gerry.