Larry Dean Cheney
Feb 11, 1947 - Jan. 18, 2024
Larry Dean Cheney was born February 11, 1947 in Salina, Kansas and passed away on January 18, 2024. He was the first born to Anthony and Phyllis (Spence) Cheney. The family grew rapidly and he was soon big brother to three sistersLinda, Nancy, and Diana. He grew up and attended school in the rural Ash Grove community of Lincoln County. He graduated from Hunter High School. Later attending college at Fort Hays State University, Kansas State University, Cloud County Community College, and Beloit Vo-Tech, receiving an Associate Degree and his Journeyman electrical license.
In 1967, he enlisted in the United States Navy. Basic training was in San Diego, CA, then sailing on the USS Braine across the Pacific for two tours of duty in Vietnam. During his time in Vietnam, he was a Brown Water “River Rat” working the interior waterways of South Vietnam and Cambodia as an Electronic Mechanic. After college, Larry worked at Kent Manufacturing in Tipton, KS, driving a semi-truck to deliver machinery. With fellow driver Bill Bunker a trucking business was formed to haul and assemble the farm machinery at dealerships across the South and Midwest. He had always enjoyed working with his hands and later began working with Eddie Davenport doing all types of electrical and plumbing installation and repair in the area surrounding Hunter.
On June 12, 1988, Larry and Karen Mitchell were united in marriage at the First United Methodist Church in Belleville, KS. After living in Hunter for two years, they moved to Karen’s family farm home near Republic, KS. They purchased cattle and built a herd of Charolais cows and raised feeder calves. Missing the electrical work, Larry accepted a job with Moeller Electric in Byron, NE, working there until retirement. But the love of his cattle continued, grass pasture adjoining his parent’s farm was purchased and he was still planning for his next calf crop at his death.
Larry loved animals, having many pets throughout his life, many special cats and dogs were spoiled at the Cheney home. Recently, he had found enjoyment feeding and watching the various birds that passed by the farmstead. He and Karen were able to enjoy many great trips around the United States and other countries. One of his greatest pleasures was a big juicy steak followed by German chocolate cake and ice cream. A list of Larry’s favorites would not be complete without mentioning auctions and a good bargain. He loved the hunt and having the winning bid – a trait inherited from his Dad.
Larry was a member of the Byron Lion’s Club, American Legion, VFW and Byron-Kansas Rural Fire Department, serving in offices and leadership positions. He also served on the Washington Township Board, caring for the Washington Cemetery in rural Republic. Survivors include his wife Karen, sisters: Linda Streit of Tipton, KS, Nancy (Bob) Wiles of Hunter, KS and Diana Thummel of Overland Park, KS. Nieces, nephews, extended family and many, many friends.
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM, Friday, January 26, 2024 at the First United Methodist Church, Belleville, KS with Pastor Amos McCarthy, officiating with Military Rites to be conducted by the U. S. Navy Honor Guard.
The casket has been closed and friends may sign the register book from 1 PM until 6 PM Wednesday and Thursday at the Bachelor-Surber Funeral Home, Belleville, KS.
On Saturday, January 27, 2024 from 10 AM until 12 Noon, friends may sign the book at the Hunter Community Center, Hunter, KS. A luncheon will be served at 12 Noon with family remarks and memories shared of Larry to follow.
Private family interment will be held later.
Memorials are suggested to the Larry D. Cheney Memorial and will be divided between Republic County, Byron, NE and Hunter, Kansas Community Foundations.
Online condolences at www.bachelor- surber.com Bachelor-Surber Funeral Home, Belleville, KS is assisting the family with the arrangements.