Larry Michael Dinkel, aged 78, of Ellis, Kansas, passed away on January 18, 2025, at HaysMed. He was born on July 9, 1946, in Hays, Kansas, to Nicholas and Lioba (Geist) Dinkel.
Larry honorably served in the US Army and had a diverse working career that began in farming, transitioned into oilfield work, and ultimately settled predominantly in construction. He brought joy and passion to his life through gardening and cooking, playing cards with his friends, hunting and he held a special place in his heart for the Denver Broncos and LA Dodgers. In Larry's younger days he had a strong resemblance to Elvis Presley and Larry truly enjoyed his music. As a devoted member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ellis, Larry was always ready to lend a hand to friends and family, which highlighted his caring personality.
Larry is survived by his daughters, Holly Dinkel of Salina, KS, and Sheila Culver of Norton, KS; his beloved grandchildren, including Shelby Dinkel and Colton Sanchez of Salina, KS, LaNae Dial of Goodland, KS, and Monica and Sierra Dial of Norton, KS. He is also remembered by his brothers, LeRoy (Helen) Dinkel of Golden, CO; Verlin Dinkel of Henderson, NV; and Pat (Doris) Dinkel of Broomfield, CO; and his sisters, Florence Honas of Chanute, KS, and Bernice (Kenneth) Klaus of Salina, KS.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas and Lioba Dinkel; as well as siblings Mark, an infant brother Marvin, Marvin, Allen, LaVerne, Kenneth, infant Verlin, Paul and sister Mary Ann Legleiter.
A visitation is scheduled for Thursday, January 30, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, which will include a combined parish vigil and rosary service at 6:00 PM at St. Mary's Church.
Funeral services will be 10:00 AM on Friday, January 31, 2025, also at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, officiated by Fr. Dana Clark.
Inurnment with Military Honors provided by the Hays VFW Honor Guard at the Kansas State Veterans' Cemetery in WaKeeney, Kansas will follow the funeral mass.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Church or EWTN. Share memories on Larry’s tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com.
Arrangements are in the care of Keithley Funeral Chapel, located at 400 E. 17th Street, Ellis, KS 67637.