from Billings Gazette

You are closer to me now than ever before and the only difference is that instead of opening my eyes to see you, now I must open my heart.  ~ Sandy Goodman

Jeff, our son, brother, friend and relation, has left the physical world for the spiritual world. He climbed many mountains and forded numerous streams. His earth life began Feb. 21, 1969 and ended June 2, 2005. Jeff's gentle soul is resting now.

Jeff grew up in Billings and spent many weekends in the mountains at this aunt's cabin. This taught him to appreciate the fragility of nature. An avid reader, Jeff could discuss a variety of topics. After graduating from Billings West High School, he went on to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in Diesel Technology from MSU-Northern. As a busy student, when he allowed himself time to relax, he spent it fishing at Fresno Reservoir, gold panning in the Zortman area or searching for "treasures" in remote areas.

Those mourning his absence include his parents, John and Deirdre Schafnitz of Billings, as well as Jerry and Lana Larson of Shleby; sister Bridgette Larson (Cory Ewing); stepbrothers, Ryan (Trey) Larson, Jay (Jen) Larson; grandparents, John Schafnitz (Margaret Scott), Margaret Huestis; uncles and aunts, Kathryn (Gene) Busch, Michael Moriarty, Diann (Roger) Ogren, Peg (Mark) Frey, Padraic (Kristin) Moriarty, Linda Larson, Harold (Becky) Larson, Albert (Jeannie) Larson, Jim (Alana) Larson, Paul Larson, Margaret (Frank) Hernandez; cousins Jay (Brenda) Ellis, Aaron (Joni) McLees, Jon (Gina) Ogren, Nelson (Lori) Nelson, Heather (Randy) Harmon, Kurt (Martha) Busch, Scott (Brenda) Busch; and numerous others that Jeff loved and spoke of fondly.

Among those that have gone before and receive him with open arms are his grandparents, Betty and Amor Larson, Alyce and Bill Moriarty, Frank Huestis and Myrtle Schafnitz; uncle Harry Larson; great aunt Betty Bice; great-grandma Mabel Reynolds.

Memorial services for Jeff will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 11 at Dahl Funeral Chapel, 10 Yellowstone Ave, Billings.

Should you choose, memorials may be sent to the Yellowstone Valley Audubon Society's Conservation Education Center at Riverfront Park, PO Box 1075, Billings, MT 59103.