Lawrence "Larry" Kimsey

Lawrence “Larry” Kimsey, age 91 of Fort Collins, CO, died Thursday, June 15, 2023, at his home. Lawrence Oliver Kimsey was born January 5, 1932, in Rodney, Iowa to Claud and Agnes Lynn Kimsey. He grew up in Oto, IA until the family moved to Sioux City where he attended Trinity Heights Catholic School. He graduated in 1950, joined the Naval Reserves and worked at McKesson & Robbins Pharmaceutical Distribution Warehouse. In 1953, Larry married the love of his life, Phyllis Walleser and together they raised five sons. In 1966, Larry advanced as a salesman with M & R and moved his family to Mitchel, SD. He stayed in this position, moved back to Sioux City and eventually retired from M & R in 1977. Then, after son, Dennis joined the Air Force, Larry, Phyllis and the four sons still at home, moved to Fort Collins where he established himself at Forney Welding. He worked in sales and shipping and receiving retiring for good in 1997. Throughout his career, Larry continued to serve with the Naval Reserves, ultimately retiring after 28 years, in 1992 as a Chief Petty Officer, 2nd Class. A devout Catholic, Church was always the priority of his life. He sang in the choir and was active with the Knights of Columbus, Council 11140. He served at every event and opportunity. He was an avid Pro-Life advocate, standing outside Planned Parenthood at every opportunity. His leisure time was spent doing crossword puzzles (in ink). He did the NY Times Crossword puzzle every week until he could no longer. Larry loved watching football, both College and Professional games. He was described enthusiastically as a true Fighting Irishman, always cheering on Notre Dame. Larry is survived by his wife of 70 years, Phyllis; five sons, Dennis (and Deb) of Ankeny, Iowa, Dana Kimsey and Brian Kimsey, both of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Jeff Kimsey and Paul Kimsey, both of Fort Collins; four grandchildren, Brandy Bogle, Brandon Kimsey, Brooke Hughes and Blake Oliver Kimsey; and seven great-grandchildren, Morgan Horsley, Preston Kimsey, Ethan Kimsey, Saylor Horsley, Paxton Hughes, Molly Rose Hughes and Archer Maris Kimsey. He was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Bertrand and his brother, Carroll “Kim” Kimsey. Recitation of the Holy Rosary will begin at 12:30 pm Friday, June 23 at St. John 23rd Catholic Parish in Fort Collins. Mass of Christian burial will begin at 1:00 pm Friday. Military honors will conclude the Mass outside of the church. Interment will be held privately, later. Larry’s family requests that any memorial donations please be made to St. John 23rd Parish Building Fund or the Mirasol Health Clinic of Northern Colorado.