Larry Connor, born Joseph Larry, lifelong resident of WaKeeney, Kansas, met his Lord on September 15, 2025. Larry was born in Hays, Kansas, on July 6, 1933. He graduated from Trego Community High School and continued on to Kansas State University, where he majored in Agriculture. Following college, he served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany, staying prepared for a potential Russian invasion during the Cold War. While in Europe, he was able to travel to Paris, but his favorite memory was visiting Rome and the Vatican.
Larry was married twice, first to Olga Harris in 1972. Sadly, Olga was taken from him the following year by cancer. He later married Helen Watson, well known in WaKeeney for Helen’s Café. They remained united until her passing in 2008. Larry was a lifelong farmer and rancher and employed and mentored many youths from WaKeeney as well as his nephews during the summers. A lifelong Democrat, Larry and Helen often hosted local events for the Democratic Party. He couldn’t understand why everyone wasn’t a Democrat, given their role in bringing Rural Electric, Social Security, and Medicare.
Beyond his strong work ethic, the defining feature of Larry’s life was his generosity. He helped countless WaKeeney residents with bills, groceries, gas, or by providing work when needed. He donated the property where the Community Center for Christ the King Church now stands. Larry long dreamed of building an indoor swimming pool for WaKeeney youth; when that plan did not come to fruition, he dug several ponds on his property to provide some of the best fishing around.
Larry is survived by sisters Lori Blackwill of WaKeeney, Kansas; Karen Vail of Salina, Kansas; and Kay Religa of Brookville, Kansas; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his sister Patricia Connor, brother James Connor, and sister Gladys Connor.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672. A graveside service will take place on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Cemetery, 500 S. 13th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672. Fr. James Alaya of Christ the King Catholic Church will be officiating.
Memorial contributions are a personal choice, but Larry supported many animal and Catholic organizations. Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 336 N. 12th St., WaKeeney, KS 67672.
To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.schmittfuneral.com.