Larry Joe Treece

Larry Joe Treece, age 82, went home to be with his Heavenly Father on Thursday, February 26, 2026. He was born on August 11, 1943, in El Reno, Oklahoma, to Arlene and Glenn Treece.

Larry grew up on a small farm in Piedmont, Oklahoma, until the end of eighth grade. During his early school years, he struggled with undiagnosed dyslexia and low self-esteem. When his family moved to Okarche as he entered high school, it became a turning point in his life. At Okarche High School he found confidence, formed many friendships, and was elected senior class president.

As a young man, Larry worked in his family's business, The Gateway Cafe. After graduating from high school, he moved to Oklahoma City to begin working for Phillips 66 and later became a manager at a full-service gas station. During this time, he remained devoted to his family, frequently returning home to check on his mother and younger sister after his parents divorced.

His dedication and work ethic eventually led to the opportunity for Larry to work for Mobil Gas where he was offered the option to buy and own a full-service gas station on Northwest Highway and McArthur in Oklahoma City. For 17 years he loved greeting his customers and helping in any way he could. Larry never met a stranger and had a gift for striking up conversations with anyone.

In 1970, Larry met his love, Maria de la Paz, at a Christmas party on a blind date arranged by his cousin Karen. Larry thought Maria was beautiful, and Maria thought Larry was too tall. They spent time growing to know and love one another, and after traveling to Mexico to meet her mother, who instantly adored him and to ask for her blessing. The two were married on September 16, 1972. Larry and Maria were married for 49 years until her passing in January 2021.

They welcomed their daughter, Monica Lynn, in 1973 and their son, Gregory Alan, in 1975. Larry successfully ran his gas station and towing service until 1986, when Mobil Gas left the state of Oklahoma. That summer, he took time to do something he truly loved-traveling throughout the western half of the United States. Larry had a deep love for American history and for this country, and he delighted in sharing what he learned with his children.

After returning from that road trip, Larry slowly began building a new venture, Treece Wrecker Service. Through hard work and determination, he grew the business over the next 30 years, working in all kinds of weather and at all hours of the day and night. He eventually sold the business at the age of 72.

While driving his trucks, Larry used the time spent with anyone who rode in his cab to share his faith. If you ever rode in Larry's tow truck, you likely received a spearmint candy to enjoy along with a conversation about salvation and the love of Jesus.

Larry enjoyed spending time in his backyard overlooking a peaceful creek, collecting Mobil Gas memorabilia, coins, and guns, and most of all, spending time with his grandchildren. His Grandkids knew that staying the night with their Papa and Auita ("Weeda" to her grandchildren) meant plenty of silliness, "cheese à la Treece," and chocolate shakes.

Larry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Maria de la Paz Treece, and his parents, Arlene Buffin and Glenn Treece and his brother-in-law, Drexel Baker, Jr.

Larry is survived by his brother Lynn Treece and sister-in-law Joyce; sister Kathy Treece Baker; daughter Monica Treece Balderas and son-in-law Lupe; and his son Greg, and daughter-in-law MaryBeth; ten grandchildren, their spouses, and six great-grandchildren.

Larry will be remembered for his strong faith, his warm conversations, his generous spirit, and the way he made everyone feel like a friend.

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