Larry Lee Minick

NOVEMBER 7, 1948 - FEBRUARY 16, 2025

Larry Lee Minick, known affectionately by friends and family as Larry, passed away on February 16, 2025, in Topeka, Kansas, after a valiant battle with cancer. Born on November 7, 1948, in Abilene, Kansas, to Lorena and Lloyd Minick, Larry's life was one marked by dedication, service, and a boundless love for his family and community.

Larry grew up in the heart of Kansas and graduated from Chapman high school in 1966. His commitment to his country was evident early on when he joined the Armed Forces, serving from 1968 to 1971 and receiving the Purple Heart for his bravery and sacrifice. After his honorable discharge, Larry returned to his roots in Talmage, Kansas, where he embraced the life of a farmer with the same passion and dedication he had shown in the military.

In the years following, Larry, alongside his then-wife Susan, moved to Junction City. There, he transitioned from tilling the soil to cultivating relationships as a Farmers Insurance Agent. Larry's entrepreneurial spirit shone through as he established the Minick Insurance Agency, a testament to his work ethic and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He retired in 2011 alongside his wife of many years, Mary, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and community service. Larry and Mary later divorced in 2024. 

Larry's love for animals was profound, and his generosity extended to the Junction City Animal Shelter and Friends of Animals, Inc.  He found solace in the company of his beloved dog, Louie, with whom he traveled and explored the many scenic vistas that he so cherished. Larry's affinity for the outdoors was complemented by his skillful hands, which were often busy maintaining his John Deere machinery or tinkering with various gadgets.

He was also a sports enthusiast, known for his presence in the bleachers, camcorder in hand, capturing every moment of his daughter's volleyball matches. His support for his children's endeavors was unwavering, and his pride in their achievements was immeasurable.

Generous, friendly, and faith-filled are words that only begin to describe Larry. His warm smile and kind-hearted nature left an indelible mark on everyone he met. Larry's legacy is carried on by his loving children, Joshua Minick (Erika) of Tyler, TX, and Sarah Mitchell (Jody) of Rossville, KS. His memory will also be cherished by his grandchildren, Alexis, Emma, and Lilly, who will miss their grandfather's gentle guidance and unwavering support.

Larry is preceded in death by his parents, Lorena and Lloyd Minick, his sister, Mary Ann Cassell, and brother, Ronald Minick. 

He is also survived by his sisters, Phyllis Fells of Woodbine, KS, and Connie Smith of Topeka, KS, who will fondly remember their brother's laughter and love for life.

As we bid farewell to Larry Lee Minick, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and joy. His journey may have come to an end in Topeka, but the stories of his kindness, courage, and unwavering spirit will continue to inspire all who knew him. Larry's life was a testament to the power of love, service, and the simple pleasures that make life truly meaningful. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Friends of Animals, Inc.  All FOA donations aide homeless pets in the Junction City area and can be paid to 

PO Box 580 Junction City, KS 66441 or through PayPal (@FOAJCKS). 

A Celebration of Life gathering will be announced at a later date.