A memorial service was held Tuesday afternoon for Billings Clinic Dr. Larry Warren Amstutz, who died Nov. 27 at age 69 in the hospital due to COVID-19 complications.
During the service, a Bur Oak tree was planted for Amstutz. Jim Duncan, president for Billings Clinic Foundation, said Tuesday afternoon that the tree was chosen due to its 200 to 300-year longevity, which will serve as a symbol for the lasting impact Amstutz' legacy will have on everyone who knew him.
Many of Amstutz' colleges attended the memorial servicem along with his daughter.
Carol Christensen, Billings Clinic out-patient manager of psychiatry, said Tuesday afternoon that she had worked with Amstutz for two-and-a-half decades.
“He was a wonderful provider in our department. A very committed and loving man. He treated both adult, child and adolescent patients. He has been a wonderful colleague, a beloved friend and most importantly, a wonderful patient advocate,” said Christensen.
Julie Kelso, department chair for psychiatry and program director for the psychiatry residents, said she has known Amstutz for 14 years.
“He was a mentor to me; he was a seasoned psychiatrist. I could ask any questions, and he provided support. He really loved and cared about his patients and also cared about learning, and really kind of inspired the rest of us," she said.
According to his family, Amstutz enjoyed movies, books and Oklahoma football. He will be remembered for his devotion to his family and patients and his way of making everyone around him smile.
Amstutz was born in Fort Worth, Texas on Nov. 28, 1950. He was the son of Glen and Clara Amstutz.
He graduated medical school at the University of Oklahoma. After marrying and moving to Billings, he was employed at Billings Clinic Hospital as a psychiatrist in 1995.
Amstsutz is survived by his four children, Kristen Goodwin (Ryan Goodwin), Danielle Hannah, Mason William, Jessica Jae; sister Linda O’Keefe (Louisville, KY); nephews and nieces, Jonathan and Lisa O’Keefe (Louisville, KY); Joseph and Katie O’Keefe (Louisville, KY); and his granddaughter Brindley Amstutz (Billings, MT).
Amstutz was the widower of Roberta (Robbie) Amstutz.
