Larry D. Erickson

Larry Duane Erikson was born August 29, 1943 in Horton, KS to Warren K. and Gladys G. Erikson. He grew up a country farm boy near Robinson, KS attending school there through the 12th grade. Larry was baptized and confirmed at the Upper Wolf Lutheran Church. He played football and basketball during high school and belonged to 4-H. He loved projects with cattle, hogs and gardening.

Larry attended college at Pittsburgh State where he met his first wife, Joann. During the Vietnam Era, Larry enlisted in the United States Air Force serving 7 years including a deployment to Thailand. After his service, he changed course and in 1974 purchased a poultry farm in Neosho, MO. While working the farm and raising two boys, he also graduated from Crowder College with a degree in Electronics. Larry also worked in Joplin, MO as an Electrician.

In 1990 after his sons left for military service, he sold the farm and moved to Independence, MO working for an alarm system company. He met and married his second wife, Diana Costello. They were longtime members of Ascension Lutheran Church.

Larry was a longtime member of the American Legion Post 21 in Independence, MO. He loved his garden, going fishing, trips to Hiawatha, KS to visit family and friends, and he was a loyal Kansas City Chiefs and Royals fan. Larry was a very kind and caring person who will be greatly missed.

Diana preceded Larry in death in 2012. Larry leaves behind a brother, Ron and his wife Kathy; two sons, John and his wife Nikki and David as well as two grandchildren, Kyle and Emma.

Larry passed away Friday, April 28th with his family by his side in Truman Gardens Care Center. Funeral service 11am Tues., May 2nd at the Ascension Lutheran Church, 4900 Blue Ridge Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64133, with visitation one hour prior. Burial to follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Online condolences to www.mcgilleysheil.com. Arr: McGilley & Sheil Chapel, 816-353-6555.