Some people leave a lasting impression because of what they accomplished. Larry will be remembered for something even more meaningful—who he was.
Larry always seemed like the smartest person in the room. He had an incredible depth of knowledge and a way of understanding things that most of us could only admire. Yet, what made him truly exceptional was that he never made anyone else feel less intelligent. He wore his wisdom with humility.
He was also one of the gentlest listeners I've ever known. When you spoke with Larry, you knew you had his full attention. He listened not to respond, but to understand. He treated everyone with kindness, patience, and genuine respect, regardless of who they were.
In a world where intelligence and humility don't always go hand in hand, Larry embodied both. He made those around him feel heard, valued, and welcomed. His quiet strength, generous spirit, and unwavering decency left a mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Michael Cornelis and Susan Riley
July 21, 2026
Uncle Larry, my mother’s “baby brother,” was one of my two favorite uncles when I was growing up (and I had a lot of uncles!) Since my family lived in St. Joseph, Missouri, we did not get to see him, Aunt Jo, and my cool “See the Rabbits” cousins as much as I would have liked. I was a toddler the first time we made the drive to Cedar Rapids in our station wagon with 6 kids and 2 parents, and I was told later in life that I thought we were going to “See the Rabbits” not Cedar Rapids. My most memorable memory of Uncle Larry was when our Iowa peeps all came to my oldest brother Tom’s wedding in June of 1970, and then stayed for several days with us at our cabin on Lake Perry, Kansas. I recall that UL really loved the outdoors and nature, and I really loved boating, water skiing, and swimming in the community swimming pool with my fun cousins, especially Mary Margaret who was the same age as me. My favorite memory of Uncle Larry was one time when he came out of the bathroom at our house in St. Joe and exclaimed to my Mom that we had “steam on tap” because our hot water was dangerously hot. My Mom replied with “Oh, Larry…”, but it was his way of using his great sense of humor to subtly and diplomatically hint that it would be a good idea to turn the thermostat down on the hot water heater so that us kids don’t get inadvertently burned. I look forward to seeing my cousins next week as we all say goodbye to earthly Uncle Larry, and I truly hope that people in heaven are able to look down and see how many people come to their funeral home visitation and Mass of Christian Burial, because I suspect that those two events will overflowing with people who will come to show their love and respect for one of the finest men I have ever personally had the pleasure of being a part of my life.
Rob Ketter
July 15, 2026
Larry McGrath was one of the finest men I ever had the good fortune to know and work with. He served on the Indian Creek Nature Center Board of Directors and was Board President. In this capacity he was an outstanding leader who helped bring direction to the organization. I know he also shared his time and skill to help other organizations that serve and help people.
Larry was also a friend who rendered several kindnesses to my family. When he worked as a financial advisor after he retired from the bank he helped my wife and I organize and efficiently invest our IRA accounts. This continues to help us today. He was a great man and I am honored to have known him.
Rich Patterson
Rich Patterson
July 15, 2026