Larry Keith Keil, 74, Hays, died Sunday, August 24, 2025 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita.
He was born November 18, 1950 in Quinter, the son of Dell D. and Mary Ann (Krannawitter) Keil. He was a graduate of St. Joseph Military Academy with the class of 1968, and following graduation he attended Fort Hays State University. Larry put his studies on hold from 1971 until 1973 when he served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany. On May 22, 1972, he was united in marriage to Sandy Pfannenstiel at Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church in Antonino. Sandy joined Larry in Germany where they lived until he was discharged in 1973. While in Germany, lifelong friendships were formed with Larry and his 501st Army crew, and they continue to have reunions 50 years later. After returning to Hays, Larry continued his education at Fort Hays State University and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in science and a Master of Science Degree. He was a dedicated math and science teacher and taught one year in Hoisington then taught in Hays at Kennedy Middle School and Hays Middle School, retiring after 38 years in the classroom. Along with teaching, Larry coached middle school football, basketball, track, and his son Garrett’s baseball team. Larry enjoyed playing softball and building model cars. He was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, the Third Degree Knights of Columbus Council #4166, Schoenchen, and the Hays American Legion Post #173.
Survivors include his wife Sandy of Hays, his son Garrett of Hays, two brothers, Jon Keil and wife Patricia of Charlotte, NC and Steve Keil and wife Dawn of Hays, two sisters, Janet Karlin and husband Charlie of Overland Park and Kay Murphy and husband Kevin of Edmond, OK, and numerous nephews, nieces, and in-laws.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his son Jordan.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 am on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church with Fr. Nick Parker officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm until 7:00 on Tuesday at Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and from 10:00 am until service time on Wednesday at the church.
A vigil service will be at 6:00 pm followed by a Knights of Columbus rosary, all on Tuesday at the funeral home. Inurnment with military honors by the VFW Post #9076 Honor Guard and the 501st Army crew salute will be 10:00 am on Friday, September 26, 2025 in Our Lady Help of Christians Cemetery.
Memorials are suggested to Antonino Cemetery Association or for masses. Condolences and memories of Larry may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com