Earl "Larry" Munger

Larry Munger, 81, Gladstone, passed away June 4, 2016. Visitation will be Tuesday, June 7, from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at McGilley Antioch Chapel, 3325 NE Vivion Road, Kansas City. Funeral will take place Wednesday, June 8 at 10:00 AM at St Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church, 6415 NE Antioch Road, Gladstone, with rosary prayers offered at 9:30.

A loving and devoted father, husband and dedicated educator, Larry had an outgoing and positive personality that connected with people and he didn’t know a stranger. He was an avid sports fan who loved his Missouri Tiger, Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals. His students adored him and his classroom was known as “MungerLand.” He would say, “Come in and let’s learn!” For several years in a row, he was nominated Teacher of the Year by his students. Among his many contributions of serving, Larry was an usher for many years at both St. Gabriel and St. Andrew parishes. Larry always treated everyone with respect and dignity.

Larry earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Central Missouri State University, a Master’s Degree and post-graduate studies from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon at Central Missouri State University.

He served 41 years in the North Kansas City School District, teaching science and biology in junior high and high school levels. He served as a teacher, mentor, instructional leader and story teller. Was also an adjunct lecturer of Ecology in Life Science at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, adjunct instructor of Education in Life Sciences at Central Missouri State University as well as adjunct instructor at Baker University. Lead writer on the curriculum writing team by developing a spiral integrated K-12 science curriculum and presented workshops and programs across the state that involved curriculum integrated education authentic assessment and other methods to promote science education. The recipient of the 1992 Touched the Future Educational Excellence Award. He was a member of the Missouri State Science Technology and Society (STS) Committee and the Missouri State Science Staff Development Team. Received a 1992 Missouri House of Representatives resolution for the North Kansas City School District STS class for its innovative approach and social values.

Other awards include: 1987 Excellence in Teaching Award by the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City; 1990 Certificate of Merit from the Kansas City Chapter of Sigma Xi, the Scientific Research Society for Outstanding contribution in the field of Science Teaching; the 1991 Missouri Teacher Award for Community Service in Building Alliances by the Missouri Alliance for Science Mathematics and Technology Education; and the 1994 KCI Northland Regional Chamber Excellence in Education Award.

Larry is preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Hazel Munger and older brother, Charles Munger. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Jeanie Munger; son Dr. Michael (Donna) Munger of Overland Park; daughter Mary Lynn Munger of Gladstone; brother Don Munger (Jean) of Independence; brother-in-law Roy Vandeginste of Gladstone; four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and many nephews, nieces and great-nephews and nieces; and his loving and devoted dachshund, Coco.

Pallbearers for the service are Mark Munger, Scott Munger, Doug Munger, Roy Vandeginste, David Vandeginste and Albert Vandendaele.

The family wishes to extend deep gratitude and special thanks to Father Vince Rogers and Father Joshua Barlett for the kindness, support and prayers. Additional thanks for all the doctors and nurses that cared for him and all our many family and friends that were there to support us.

The family suggests contributions to St Andrew the Apostle Parish. Fond memories and condolences may be left at www.mcgilleyantiochchapel.com as arrangements are under the direction of McGilley Antioch Chapel, 816-453-7700