MITCHELL, Larry Rex - b. July 18, 1936 - d. November 7, 2016

[patyrn]

Larry Rex Mitchell, age 80, of Howard, Kansas, passed away November 7, 2016 at Pleasant Valley Nursing Home in Sedan, Kansas.  On July 18, 1936, the family of William Rex Mitchell and Ollie Marie (LaFollette) Mitchell welcomed the birth of their son, Larry.  Born in Glencoe, Oklahoma, he was one of three children in his family including sisters Irene and Donna.

Larry grew to serve his country in the California National Guard from 1957-1963.  After meeting the woman with whom he would share his life and his love, Larry married Ettie Jewel Parker on July 3, 1957 at the Mitchell Community Church in Turlock, California.  To this union were born three children, Rick, Debbie, and Mike who reiterated the fact that their father had a very strong faith and loved the Lord.  They were quick to credit their dad with their own strong work ethic, knowing that he also cared more for them than he did himself.  According to them, he "spent his whole life working".  Larry was also described as being very just and a solid stone, that others of all ages would seek his wisdom.  However as much as Larry served in different capacities, he never wanted his name mentioned and preferred to stay behind the scenes.

Larry was an extraordinary man with a kind and generous spirit and above all, a servant's heart.  He possessed a vibrant faith that put the Son in his heart, and he was always looking for a way to give to those around him whether his family, his friends, or those who simply needed help.  Those who knew Larry knew that he treasured his wife and was so proud of the family they created together.  He leaves behind lessons in integrity, compassion, goodwill, justice, and the importance of having a strong faith.

Larry went on to become a rancher and farmer before retiring and moving to Howard, Kansas where he and Ettie made a beautiful home.  Their vegetable and flower gardens were nothing short of spectacular, and Larry was constantly working on one project or another.  Devout in his faith, he and Ettie were faithful members of the First Baptist Church in Severy, Kansas. 

In so many way, Larry brought such life to the world around him.  With his helpful demeanor and quiet style, his actions spoke louder than his words.  He was one of those people who would do anything for anyone, and his dedication to the children and grandchildren was endless.  He taught them so much about life, both in word and in deed.  A gentle and kind man, Larry's life is a testament to what it truly means to be the :hands and feet of the Lord he loved".  He will be deeply missed by many.

Larry is survived by his wife, Ettie of their home in Howard, Kansas; children Rick Mitchell (Janet) of Elk Falls, Kansas, Mike Mitchell (Ann) of Howard, Kansas, and Debbie Sheel of Moline, Kansas; and sisters, Irene Mustoe and Donna Parker, both of Hilmar, California.  Visitation will be held at Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas on Thursday, November 10, 2016 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.  Graveside services will be held at the Moline City Cemetery in Moline, Kansas on Friday, November 11, 2016 at 11:00 a.m.  Online condolences may be left at www.countrysidefh.com.  Arrangements are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home of Howard, Kansas.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)