COATES, Larry Allen, Sr. - b. January 29, 1948 - d. June 30, 2021

[patyrn]

Larry Allen Coates Sr., age 73, of Longton, Kansas, passed away June 30, 2021 at his home.  He was born January 29, 1948 in Beatrice, Nebraska to Leslie and Milgene (Demphey) Coates.

Larry grew up alongside five siblings and graduated from Beatrice High School in Nebraska.  After graduation, he worked in the oil fields for awhile.  Then he was a short order cook before joining the United States Air Force.  There he found his calling, and he spent the next 20 years serving his country.  He was stationed in many places throughout the world including Vietnam, the Philippines, and Turkey.  Back in the states, he was stationed in California and Montana before ending up at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas where he stayed until retirement as an E-7 Master Sergeant.

After retirement, Larry wanted to live in the country and found his place south of Longton, Kansas.  He was passionate about working and serving animals.  He tinkered with stuff in his shop and rescued many dogs from AWOL which he loved dearly.  At one point, Larry had 50 dogs total until his health wouldn't let him take care of them all.  Larry Loved his family and friends and will be truly missed by them all.

Larry is survived by his children, Larry Coates, Jr. of Longton, Kansas, LuAne (Steven) Reist of Wichita, Kansas and Janet Ruckle of Wichita, Kansas; grandchildren, Whitney Ferguson, Brooke, Traci, Kevin, Joseph, and Emily Reist, Jasmine, Kendra, Matthew, and Brendon Haraburda, and Samantha Ruckle; 9 great-grandchildren; and siblings, Patsy, Nancy, and Brenda.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Betty, and his brother, John.

Per Larry's request, cremation has been effected with no services planned.  Memorial contributions in Larry's name can be made to AWOL Humane Society and can be left with or mailed to Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349 which is handling arrangements.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)