Larry Alan Self Sr., 84, of Muscotah, Kansas, passed away peacefully Friday, October 16, 2026, at KU Medical Center in Kansas City, surrounded by his family.
Larry was born February 12, 1942, in Topeka, Kansas, to Ben and Margaret Self. He grew up on the family farm in Ozawkie, Kansas.
On July 4, 1964, Larry married the love of his life, Virginia "Ginger" Anderson. The couple shared 62 years of marriage. Following their wedding, they settled southwest of Muscotah, where they built their home and raised four children. All four children eventually made their homes within two miles of their parents.
Larry proudly served as a sergeant in the National Guard from 1963 to 1969, during the Vietnam War era. After completing cook training in California, he was stationed in Colorado Springs, Colorado. His love of country and pride in his family's heritage remained important throughout his life.
Farming was Larry's lifelong passion. He continued farming southwest of Muscotah until his passing and was operating a combine in the fields just a week before his death. He was happiest behind the wheel of a tractor or combine, especially if it was John Deere equipment. His enthusiasm for the familiar green and yellow machinery was well known among family and friends.
Larry lived by four guiding principles: Faith, Family, Freedom, and Farming. He believed in helping neighbors, making friends wherever he went and enjoying country music. A member of the United Church of Muscotah, he was known for his willingness to lend a hand and his gift for storytelling.
Above all, Larry treasured his family. He especially enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and took great pride in the close-knit family he and Ginger had built.
Survivors include his wife, Virginia "Ginger" Self; his four children, Larry Self Jr. (Lori), Lori Pickman (Bill), Lisa Smith (Trever) and Leslie Chew (Ryan); 13 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren, with another expected; his brother, Tim Self (Gayla); and his sister, Rita Smith.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Margaret Self, and his brother, Vern Self.
Funeral services will be held Friday morning, October 23, at 10:30, at the Muscotah United Church in Muscotah. Burial will follow at Larkingburg Cemetery with military honors.
Larry will lie in state Wednesday, October 21, from 10:00 AM to 6 PM, at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton.
The family will greet friends Thursday evening, October 22, from 5:00 to 7:00, at the funeral home.
Condolences and messages for the family may be shared at www.mercerfuneralhome.com.
