Larry Gene Nickell Sr., a father, grandfather, mentor, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025, at the age of 83. A visitation will be held from 10:30 am to 11:30 am Saturday, February 1, 2025 at Mullinax Funeral Home, Drexel chapel (816-657-4400). Memorial services will follow at 11:30 am Saturday, also at the chapel. Private family burial will take place in Sharon Cemetery, Drexel at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made, in lieu of flowers, to the Drexel Golf Association or the American Heart Association. Messages of condolence may be left for the family at www.mu linaxfuneralhome.com.
Larry saw each day as a gift. His life was a testament to his faith in God, his love for his family, and his commitment to helping others.
Born on October 16, 1941, Larry was the son of Jim and Ruth Nickell. He attended Fort Scott High school, graduating in 1959. He held multiple jobs from a welder, to working on aircraft at Boeing, until he found his career working at KCPL from 1967-1999.
At the age of 14, he met Nancy, the love of his life, and the two were married on June 2, 1961. Their journey together began in Fort Scott fo lowed by time in Kansas City, but soon took them to Drexel, Missouri, where they built a home and a life together for the past 63 years.
One of his favorite pastimes was riding his tractor and working on the farm. The farm wasn’t just a place to him—it reflected his hard work, determination, and love for the simple yet rewarding things in life. If he wasn’t at the farm, you may have found him at one of his children’s or grandchildren’s events, including sporting games, art shows, or music concerts, just to name a few.
Larry was also a passionate gun collector. He had an interest in the history and craftsmanship of firearms and spent many years building an impressive collection that he enjoyed talking about with family and friends.
For many years, he dedicated his life to supporting others through Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Larry’s personal journey of recovery inspired many others to find hope and healing. His story was one of resilience, humility, and grace, and he was a living example that change is possible with faith, hard work, and a willingness to help others. Through his service, he touched the lives of so many, saving those who felt lost and providing a sense of belonging to those in need of a second chance. Larry’s legacy will live on and be remembered through the actions, wisdom, advice, and opinions shared throughout his life.
Larry is survived by his daughters Terry Owens (John) and Laurie Webb (Trent); son Larry Nickell Jr. (Lori); and his grandchildren Ryan, Lauren (Bryan), Emily, Truman, Lydia, Ava, and Matthew. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren Wyatt, Evelyn, Noah, and Logan and a host of family and friends.
Larry was preceded in death by his devoted wife Nancy Nicke l; sister Joyce Jost; parents Jim & Ruth Nicke l and other extended family members.
In Larry’s words: “Please do not mourn, but celebrate a l I have been given after changing my life by the Grace of God and the forgiveness and mercy offered by my family.”
May the thought of him being reunited with his love, Nancy, bring comfort and peace during this time.
