Larry Mendenhall, age 81, passed away on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 at Lee’s Summit Medical in Lee’s Summit, Missouri.
Larry Edward Mendenhall was born on November 09, 1943 to Charles and Anna Mendenhall, and departed this earth on 11/20/2024. Larry graduated from Urich High School and married the love of his life in 1963, Carolyn Ann(Dalton) Mendenhall. To this union four children were born, Richard Edward, Ronald James, Renee LinAnn, and Ryan Dale. Over the years, their family grew, adding 6 more children through adoption: Randall Daquan, Michelle Rae, Krystle Rae’Anne, Robert Deon, Nevaeh Raelyn, and Robin Jolene.
Larry held several jobs throughout his lifetime, beginning with his days on the farm with his dad and brother, continuing through high school. He worked for awhile at Furniture City, owned his own carpet laying business, was Manager at Slugger’s 66 gas station, and most recently worked at Golden Valley Memorial Hospital, where he retired after over 15 years.
Larry was an avid Chiefs fan and fisherman while his health allowed. What Larry was most known for was his partnership with Carolyn in raising over 500 foster children over a span of a little over 50 years. They committed to each other at a young age wanting to help children who needed a home, shelter, food, clothing, but most of all, a family. They devoted and sacrificed so much to be able to make a difference in so many children’s lives.
Larry was a true believer in Christ and showed that devotion throughout his everyday life. He was met at the Gates of Heaven by Jesus Himself, but also those preceding him in death, including his parents, Charles and Anna Mendenhall, his brother Harold Mendenhall, his son Rick Mendenhall, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and in-laws.
Larry is survived by his wife of 61 years, Carolyn Ann, children Ronnie(Jean), Renee(Larry), Ryan(Laura), Randy (Jocelynne), Michelle (Justin), Krystle (Dave), Robert, Nevaeh, and Robin. He is also survived by grandchildren Tanya Williams, Scott Anderson, Jordan Mendenhall, Ashley Brickle, Cory Garrison, Sarah Mendenhall, Jacob Mendenhall, Gabriel Pace, Kaitlyn Russell, Kaleb Russell, Bradley Phillips, Zach Thornton, and Destiny Thornton. He is also survived by 8 great grandchildren.
Funeral services were held November 26, 2024 at the Vansant-Mills Chapel, Clinton with Dr. Pat Findley officiating. Special music included “Amazing Grace, When We All Get To Heaven and Go Rest High.” The casket bearers were Scott Anderson, Cory Garrison, Bradley Phillips, Jordan Mendenhall, Jacob Mendenhall and Zach Thornton. The honorary bearers were Kaleb Russell, Lonnie Carneal, Mary Kampe, Gabe Pace, Larry Mothersbaugh and Johnny VanWinkle. Interment followed in Drakes Chapel Cemetery, Clinton, MO.
Services were under the direction of Vansant-Mills Funeral Home of Clinton, MO.
