Larry L. Gries

Larry was born in August of 1946 to Clare (Martz) and Melvin Gries in Onawa, IA. He graduated from Lexington High School in Lexington, NE and went on to serve in the United States Air Force as a dental technician during the Viet Nam War. After his service he went on to get his undergraduate college degree in Kearney, NE, followed by completion of his Master’s degree in social work from the University of Omaha. He spent most of his professional career in work which supported veterans and worked for many years at the Omaha VA Hospital as the vocational rehabilitation specialist. Outside of work he enjoyed movies, Nebraska football and became a fervent birdwatcher. He also loved spending time with his friends, family and his dogs.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brother and sisters Cathy and Elsie. He is survived by his wife Leslie, his sister Linda (Don) Jones, and brother Frank (Susan) Strong and many nieces and nephews, friends and extended family. In lieu of flowers please send memorials to the Nebraska Humane Society or Omaha’s Open Door Mission. 

And finally remember to remind yourself to let it go. There is nothing but our already departed friends and loved ones, grace and peace, hopefully free parking and our pets beyond number that await us in the great beyond. Whatever creator you believe in did not create you to be eternally punished for brief worldly failings. Be at peace with what comes ahead and let go the cares and fears of this world and be open to the compassion that we shall find in the next.

Namaste.

Private Services

Interment Omaha National Cemetery

Memorials to the Nebraska Humane Society or the Open Door Mission.