Larry A. Self, Sr.

Larry Alan Self, Sr., 84, of Muscotah, KS, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2026, at KU Medical Center in Kansas City, surrounded by the love of his family.

Larry was born on February 12, 1942, in Topeka, Kansas, to Ben and Margaret Self, and grew up on the family farm in Ozawkie, Kansas. On July 4, 1964—fittingly married on Independence Day like a true "Mr. and Mrs. America"—Larry wed the love of his life, Virginia "Ginger" Anderson. Together, they shared 62 wonderful years of marriage. After marrying, Larry and Ginger moved southwest of Muscotah, where they built a home, a life, and a family that became the absolute center of his world.

To their union were born four children: Larry Self, Jr. (Lori), Lori Pickman (Bill), Lisa Smith (Trever), and Leslie Chew (Ryan). In a remarkable testament to the strength of their family bond, all four children settled within two miles of their parents in Muscotah.

Larry was an exceptionally proud grandfather to 13 grandchildren: Billy Pickman (April), Brittany Fox (Tanner), Zane O'Brien (Lindsey), Aiden O'Brien, Benjamin Pickman (Madi), Michaela Keller (Cyrus), Trever John Smith (Aquene), Tate Smith (Katilyn), Tucker Smith (Sarah), Jaron Chew, Emme Smith, Danielle Chew (Jaxson), and Blake Chew. He was equally blessed with 8 great-grandchildren: Leonardo, Hallie, Luke, Fritz, Violet, Virginia Mae, Lola, and soon to be born, Jack.

Larry is also survived by his brother, Tim Self (Gayla), and his sister, Rita Smith. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Ben and Margaret Self, and his brother, Vern Self.

Larry proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the National Guard during the Vietnam War era from 1963 to 1969. After completing his cook training in California, he was stationed in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He carried a deep love for his country and an immense pride in where his family came from, instilling those same patriotic values and deep appreciation for their heritage in his children.

Farming was Larry’s lifelong passion and way of life. He farmed southwest of Muscotah continuously until his passing, and was still out in the fields running the combine just a week before he died. Larry was truly happiest when sitting in the cab of a tractor or combine, or spending time surrounded by his beloved family. His love for John Deere equipment was legendary—if Larry had his way, he would have painted the entire world green and yellow!

Above all, Larry strongly believed in four core pillars: Faith, Family, Freedom, and Farming. He lived his life by a few simple, unbreakable rules: if you need a hand, you help; if you meet a stranger, you make a friend; and "if it ain't country, it ain't music." He was a member of the United Church of Muscotah, a neighbor who would drop everything to lend a hand, and a master storyteller who had a tale for every occasion.

Larry’s greatest legacy and highest joy was his family. His love, laughter, and stories will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Funeral Services will be held 10:30 A.M. Friday, October 23, 2026 at the Muscotah United Church in Muscotah, Kansas. Burial to follow at the Larkingburg Cemetery with Military Honors. Larry will lie in state Wednesday, October 21, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. at the Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Family will greet friends from 5:00 - 7:00 P.M. Thursday, October 22, 2026 at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Muscotah United Church, Atchison County Community Schools Education Foundation or Atchison Military Funeral Honor Team c/o of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.