Larry Samuel McTaggart, 85, of Sparta, WI passed away suddenly at his home on March 8, 2025. He was born on March 30, 1939, to Clayton and Bonnie (Broom) McTaggart.

Larry spent his early years in Earl, WI, before moving with his family to Spooner, WI, in 1945. He graduated from Spooner High School in 1957, where he was a standout athlete on the football field and a proud member of the 1956 championship team his senior year. Photography was a skill he developed, even taking his own senior picture. Larry later attended UW-Eau Claire to study chemistry.

On August 12, 1961, Larry married Elaine Christensen in Pine Island, MN. They began their life together in St. Paul, MN, where he worked at 3M, making significant contributions in research and development, including holding patents for his innovations. In 1978, the family relocated to Sparta, where Larry continued his career at Northern Engraving.

Larry was a lifelong learner with a deep curiosity and passion for research. His interests were vast—he was a dedicated Cub and Boy Scout leader, an active member of the Congregational Church in Sparta, and a member of the Monroe County Board. He was a proud Scotsman, wearing a kilt and learning to play the bagpipes with the La Crosse and District Pipe and Drums. Larry enjoyed the camaraderie of local wood-turning and sock-knitting groups. Though the internet sometimes proved challenging, he loved using it for research and the thrill of online auctions.

A skilled craftsman, Larry built birdhouses and various wood and metal decorations. He was a talented handyman, remodeling both of his homes and always willing to lend a hand to neighbors in need. As a Master Gardener, his green thumb was evident in his beautiful property. Auctions were a favorite pastime, and his collection reflected his appreciation for unique and useful finds—though locating them sometimes proved an adventure.

Above all, Larry was a devoted husband, serving as a loving and supportive caregiver to Elaine before her passing in 2001.

He married Pamela Ames December 31, 2001 in LaCrosse, WI.

Survived by:
Larry is survived by his children:
• Jeni Kessler and her children:
o Erik (Jessica) and their daughter, Willow
o John (Courtney)
o Jake
• Rod McTaggart (Kitty Burdick) and their children:
o Carter, Charlie, and Kelsey
• Chad McTaggart (Heather) and their children:
o Brooke Larson (Erik)
o Elaina (Austin)
o Camden and Tavin
• Erika McTaggart (Jim Church) and their children:
o Nick and Kaylie
Larry is also survived by his wife, Pamela, and her children and grandchildren:
• Children of Amy & Steve Zietlow (deceased)
o Paula (Kevin) Zietlow-Buttner and their children:
o Greyson and Hayden
o Aidan Zietlow, Chynna Zietlow, Ryland Zietlow, Harper Zietlow
• Adam (Angie) Ames and their children:
o Austin and Andrew
• Audra (Ryan) Keeney and their children:
o Braeden (Brantley Davis) Johnson Keeney and their daughter, Aurora
o Lily, Davin, Isabell, Sophia, Quinten, Hadassah, Roman, Isaiah, Miriam, Solomon, Zion, and Silas Keeney
• Alyx (Christopher) Bushnell and their children:
o Catalaya and Paxton

Larry is further survived by his brothers, Ed and Dan (Lori), along with many in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Preceded in Death by:
• His parents: Clayton and Bonnie McTaggart
• His first wife: Elaine McTaggart
• Amy and Steven Zietlow and their son, Payton Zietlow

Larry will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His legacy of curiosity, craftsmanship, and kindness will live on in those he touched.

A Celebration of Life and luncheon for Larry will be Sunday, March 30th from 12:00 to 3:00 at Wisco 8, 2700 Riley Rd. Sparta, WI.

Last Update: Mar 19, 2025 1:21 pm CDT