Larry Dean McKinney

Larry Dean McKinney, 81, born in Lincoln, Nebraska, on October 29, 1942 peacefully passed away after a short battle with cancer on April 18, 2024. He was surrounded by many loved ones. Larry spent his younger years in Indianapolis after graduating from Shortridge High School. He eventually relocated his family to Kokomo, IN, in 1980 after he received a promotion with the United States Postal Service. He rose through their ranks retiring as Postmaster to pursue his true passion, the world of auto racing. He was well known for designing, building and driving his own race cars. He ran his last drag race and won at the age of 80. He nurtured the talents of many young drivers providing them their first opportunity to race. His memorable contributions to auto racing include time spent with Indy race car teams, a top fuel dragster team and the Ferrari open wheel driver developmental team. Larry remained active and adventurous. He enjoyed taking long bicycle rides and daily walks. At the age of 78, he rode the entire 41-mile Nickel Plate Trail. He continued to challenge himself with new experiences like hot air ballooning in Sedona, riding an air glider over the Grand Canyon and zip lining through the Smoky Mountains. Alongside his beloved partner, Joan, he wintered in Florida. Their home became a hub of camaraderie with family and friends gathering to bask in the sunshine, savor his delicious meals and raise a toast to life's blessings. Larry loved his view of the ocean and always had his binoculars ready to view a passing ship, marine life or a rocket launch. He would pass the binoculars to everyone around him so they could share it, too. Larry was a true gentleman and will be remembered for his ingenuity, remarkable achievements and zest for life. His legacy of love, adventure, and generosity will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but fondly remembered. Larry is preceded in death by his parents Vernon B. McKinney (1908-1982) and Valerie A. (Ephramson) McKinney (1915-2009); and his sister Janice F. Buse (McKinney) (1947-2023). He is survived by his devoted long-term partner Joan McReynolds who stood by his side throughout their adventures and journeys, and cherished family and friends including his children David A. (Angela), Deborah L. Foster (Thomas), Daniel W. (Jami), Douglas L. (Stacy) McKinney; brothers Donald W. (Dodi) and Dennis L. (Debbie) McKinney; grandchildren John Sullivan, Megan Donovan (Steven), Amanda McKinney (Jacob), Zachary McKinney, Rebecca Detro, Randi McKinney, Emily Paul (Adam), Matthew McKinney, Sarah Detro, Rachel Detro, and Abbey McKinney; three great-grandchildren; and stepdaughter Erin E. Day. In accordance with Larry's wishes, there will be no funeral service. Cremation services will be provided by Ellers Mortuary.