Teri Larsen

Teri Ann Larsen of Sheridan, Montana passed peacefully on August 16, 2025. She was born on August 15, 1948, in Butte, Montana to Herbert and Luella Maichel. Teri attended school in Butte and Whitehall before stepping into the role that defined much of her life-caring for others. Her greatest passion was helping in any way she could, whether lending a hand, offering a listening ear, or welcoming someone to her table. She became well known as a talented ranch cook and baker, where her meals and treats brought people together and, in time, led her to meet the love of her life, Kristen "Kris" Larsen, while cooking for the Cal Creek Ranch in Sheridan, Montana. After they married, Teri continued cooking for the ranch before joining Kris on the road when he began hauling cattle across the country. She cherished riding in the "big truck" and the adventures they shared together, building a beautiful life full of love, travel, and laughter. She also treasured memories of visiting Denmark and crisscrossing the country in their semi. Teri had a hard time sitting still-she loved to stay busy. Whether camping, fishing, baking, dancing, sewing, or spending time with her family, she found joy in every moment. Her grandchildren, Bailey and Cole, were the light of her life. She never missed a single event, from school events, FFA/4-H shows, proms, rodeos, and sporting functions. Her love for flowers and gardening was unmatched. With her green thumb, she could grow flowers three times the size they were supposed to be. Her home was well known as "the house with all the pretty flowers." Just as she did at home, Teri had a gift for making spaces feel welcoming and special, and her flowers became a cherished part of the Madison County Fairgrounds' charm as well. Always giving back to her community, Teri also served for many years on the Sheridan Booster Club. Her love for her community and family was matched by her love for her country, as she was proudly patriotic and never missed a chance to fly her flags with pride. A visit to Teri's home always meant smiles, laughter, and a full belly. Her love showed in everything she did. Anyone blessed enough to know her was able to feel that love. Spoiling was simply in her nature, and if you knew her, you knew how it felt to be truly loved. Teri was preceded in death by her father Herbert Maichel, mother Luella (Roy) Smith, brother Jim Maichel, and her husband, Kristen "Kris" Larsen. She is survived by her two children, Dana (Shane) Escott and Joe (Lynn) Forcella and family; her beloved grandchildren Bailey Escott and Cole Escott; and extended family including Mandy (Mike) Cyr, grandson Austin (Chelsea) Cheff and great grandson Colt Cheff, Dick (Bev) Smith, Toni Case, RD Case, Dusty Case, her brother Bill (Leila) Michael and family, along with many dear friends who were blessed by her love. The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Home Park Assisted Living and Honeybee Hospice for the compassionate care they provided for "Gram" in her last few months. Teri is now casting a worm into her favorite creek, tending the most beautiful flower garden, and finding sweet children to spoil-just as she always did. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. The memorial will be at a later date.