Larry Dean Kukes

Larry attended school in both Toppenish and Prosser, and graduated from Prosser High School in 1971. It was in Prosser where he met Nancy Sybouts, the love of his life. Nancy and Larry were married on July 1972, and recently celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary.

Nancy and Larry lived in Prosser where they raised their two boys, Scott and Bryan. For over 30 years, Larry worked for the Department of Transportation in many roles. He retired in 2013 and was happiest when surrounded by friends and family, especially his two granddaughters.

Papa loved taking his granddaughters out for walks around the neighborhood on his scooter, and could frequently be seen scooting down the road with one girl on each knee. He loved beeping his horn loudly, and telling us the girls did it. He was also a great fan of the girls’ sports. Papa never missed a game or a tournament and could always be seen on the sidelines cheering. He would spend hours sitting on the couch while the girls read to him, which they followed with a quiz to make sure he was listening. He had the best jokes, and there wasn’t a moment that Papa wasn’t ready for jammie time (aka lounge pants).

Larry loved to travel and he and Nancy went on several cruises, visited the Bahamas, Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, and always cherished the annual family trip to Seaside, OR. He treasured this time with Nancy and the family, and always looked forward to the next adventure!

Larry was the person that everyone could count on for a smile and encouraging word. He was a good listener and always found a positive way to look at things. Larry was handy and creative and could fix anything. He was selfless, generous, and was always there to lend a hand to anyone in need.

His passions were fishing, painting, wood working, and spending time with family and friends. He loved hunting and camping and was known as the Camp Coordinator, in between sleeping and snacking!

Larry (Papa, Dad, Daddy, Uncle Larry) will be truly missed by his adoring wife, family and friends. We love you with all of our hearts, but know you are in a better place with the Lord.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Norma, and his sister, Lynette Pitt. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, son Scott (Bradi) Kukes, son Bryan Kukes and Rocio, two granddaughters, Kylee Kukes and Marley Kukes, siblings Luanne (Roy) Durfey and Mike (Mary) Kukes, and numerous relatives, in-laws, nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life open house will start at 1:00 PM on Friday, August 26 at 5603 Kirkwood Lane, West Richland. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Kidney Foundation.

Arrangements under the direction of Hazen & Jaeger Funeral Home, Spokane, WA.