Larry Paul Smith, 85 of North Platte, passed away on June 15th, 2022, in Denver, Colorado after a complicated illness. Larry was born on October 30th,1936 in Grand Island, Nebraska to Forrest and Helen Smith. He was raised on a farm with hard-working ethics and attended Grand Island High School. His love of sports was enhanced by an undefeated football team that was later inducted into the Nebraska Hall of Fame.
In high school, he met his lifelong sweetheart, Patsy Underwood. They married soon after graduation. To this union two children were born: Steven Michael and Tammy Renae. Larry soon decided to pursue a college education at Kearney State College in Physics and Math. After graduation, Larry taught in Hordville, Nebraska. He then went on to earn his master’s degree in physics at the University of Wyoming. He then taught math and physics for 36 years at Mid Plains Community College in North Platte. His education grew with many hours at the University of Minnesota and University of Washington State. Larry loved working with his colleagues and teaching his students. Foremost he treasured spending time with his family and friends and delighted in their growth and their accomplishments.
After retirement, Larry and Patsy moved to Jeffrey Lake and met many great new friends. Larry is proceeded in death by his father Forrest, mother Helen and brother Don. Larry is survived by wife, Patsy, son, Steve and daughter, Tammy. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Lance, Natasha, Kara, Lydia, Ryan, Hannah and Erik and ten great grandchildren.
Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 29, 2022 at First United Methodist Church with The Reverend Dr. Douglas Delp and Pastor Michael Evans officiating. Burial will follow at North Platte City Cemetery. A Memorial Book Signing will be from Noon to 5:00 p.m., on Tuesday, June 28, 2022 at Carpenter Memorial Chapel. Memorials made be made to the Prairie Arts Center or a scholarship for students studying math and physics in North Platte, Brady and surrounding areas at MPCC.
Carpenter Memorial Chapel is entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences and sharing of memories may be made at www.carpentermemorial.com