Larry VanWey passed away on Saturday, March 17th with his loving wife Vicky and three wonderful children, Lance, Garrick and Valissa by his side.

Visitation will be Wednesday, March 21st from 7:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Thursday, March 22nd at 2:00 P.M. at Arensberg-Pruett Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.  Memorial contributions can be made in Larry’s name to the cats and kittens of the Humane Society of Atchison. Online condolences and remembrances may be left at www.arensbergpruett.com.

Larry was born in Atchison on January 26, 1943, to Clyde and Cleo (Jones) VanWey.  He attended Franklin Grade School and graduated from Atchison High School in 1961. 

Larry and Vicky Magin were married on Valentine’s Day and celebrated 53 years together this past February. 

In 1963, Larry began his apprenticeship with the Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union #45 in St. Joseph, Missouri, and was employed by Piper Plumbing of Atchison.  During his career as a plumber/pipefitter, Larry traveled all over the United States, and even overseas to Saudi Arabia. Larry was a proud and dedicated Union member.  For his local union, he served on several committees, was voted in as Vice-President and served as Interim Business Manager.  He also attended the national UA convention as a delegate for Local #45.  He retired in 2006. 

Larry loved working on houses and helping neighbors and friends with all kinds of projects. He was always a skilled handyman and truly enjoyed using those skills to help others.  In addition to his construction skills, Larry also enjoyed cooking and baking.  His favorite meals were those family recipes from his Mom and Mother-in-law.  Larry adopted three stray cats, Kitty, Big and Baby, whom he adored and spoiled with treats and attention.

Looking back on his life, Larry said there were so many people he worked with, talked to and had great respect for.  It was his good fortune in his lifetime to be around such great people.  He also said he had three great kids, and above all, his wife Vicky made living his life so good through all these years. 

He is survived by his wife Vicky, sons Lance (Stacy Vessar), Garrick, and daughter Valissa (Ben Chapman), as well as six grandchildren, a grand-dog and five great grandchildren.  His sisters Bettie Katalin of Pittsburg, PA, and Beckie Edwards of Weston, MO, also survive.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Jack and Richard VanWey, and two sisters Margaret Nicholson and Connie Seager.