Lanny Glen Slater, Sr

Lanny Glen Slater Sr, born on March 1, 1941, in Neche, North Dakota, passed away on January 16, 2025, in Yelm, Washington. Having moved to Olympia, Washington, in 1949, Lanny made Olympia his cherished home for 76 years. His spirited nature and profound love for life touched all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Lanny was a graduate of Olympia High School (1956-1960) and furthered his education at Cal, Fullerton, CSU in 1962. He served with distinction in the United States Navy aboard the USS Nimitz, where he was honorably discharged due to medical reasons related to muscular dystrophy.

A man of many talents, Lanny was a skilled roofer and proudly operated Slater Brothers Roofing until his retirement. His passion for music was undeniable; as a vibrant founder of the band "Lanny Slater & The Triumphs," he entertained the Pacific Northwest and was even recognized in Seattle’s Experience Music Project museum. Lanny’s love for music was rivaled only by his love for the outdoors, as he enjoyed horseback riding, motorcycles, camping, swimming, boating, and his cherished pastime of singing around the campfire. Competition horsemanship was one of his greatest passions. He excelled in events like cow cutting and barrel racing, earning numerous awards throughout his career. It was a pursuit that brought him immense joy and fulfillment.

Lanny's presence was unmistakable; he possessed a larger-than-life personality, commanding every room he entered. Those fortunate enough to call him a friend were loved for life, often enveloped in one of his famous welcoming hugs. His knack for storytelling left lasting impressions and brought joy to countless gatherings.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, fond memories, and laughter shared with his at the time wife Thelma Cheryl Pries from Onalaska Washington, his son; Lanny Glen Slater Jr. (Kimi), daughters Michelle Larae Slater-Bacon (Michael Bacon), La Nae Laurelle Slater (Damon Pistulka),alone with  seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His descendants include Steven, Ryan, Catherine Bacon, Amanda, Conner Moss, and Haley and Jalen Slater. He is predeceased by his mother, Edith L. Otto, and his beloved sisters Karen L. Hjelm, LaRae M. Stanton, Ladeene L. Slater, and Ellie Smith.

A memorial service to honor Lanny’s remarkable life will be held on April 18th at 10 AM at the Lacey Community Center, 6729 Pacific Avenue SE, Lacey, WA 98503. Family and friends are warmly invited to share in celebrating his life, echoing his stories, and cherishing the multitude of memories he leaves behind.