Larry Ray Lehnen

Larry Ray Lehnen, age 79, of Kansas City, Kansas, passed away on Monday, January 12, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones. Larry was born on January 8, 1947, in Yakima, Washington, to Esther and Robert Lehnen. He proudly served in the United States Army with the 1st Air Cavalry Division (Airmobile) from 1966–1972 during the Vietnam War. Larry was deeply proud of his service to his country and was a longtime member of American Legion Post 370. Larry retired after many years as a service writer and certified mechanic. He had a true gift for fixing all kinds of machinery and took great pride in his work. He loved his tools and always knew exactly where each one belonged—especially if someone borrowed one! Larry deeply loved his family, especially his beloved wife, Connie, with whom he would have celebrated nearly 61 years of marriage on February 13. He was incredibly proud of his only daughter, Valerie, and the traits and wisdom they shared—being a hard worker and never giving up. Larry cherished watching his only granddaughter, MiKaylee, grow up and marry Colin McCarty, who blessed him with his only great-granddaughter, Presley, whom he dearly loved. Larry often said he was lucky to have such a fun-loving son-in-law, Jimmy Anaya, whom he taught many life lessons and “fix-it” skills over the years.

Larry also loved sharing his favorite hobbies with those closest to him, especially fishing. He was quite the fisherman and caught many crappie throughout the years. He enjoyed singing Elvis songs, playing pool, watching westerns, playing cards, and—most of all—sharing his life wisdom with anyone willing to listen and drinking a cold Bud Light! Larry is survived by his wife, Connie Lehnen; his daughter and son-in-law, Valerie and James Anaya; his granddaughter, MiKaylee McCarty, and her husband, Colin; his great-granddaughter, Presley McCarty; and his brother, Gary Lehnen, and wife, Bonnie. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Esther White and Robert Lehnen; his grandparents, Velma and Charlie Strain; his stepfather, John Shelton; and his brother, John Joel Shelton.

A Graveside Service will be held at Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery on Saturday, January 17, at 11:00 a.m. (12600 Parallel Parkway, Kansas City, Kansas 66109), followed by a Celebration of Life and luncheon at American Legion Post 370 (7500 West 75th Street, Overland Park, Kansas 66204), beginning at 12:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to American Legion Post 370 to help support veterans, in memory of Larry Lehnen.