Larry E. Hancock, 73, of Independence, Missouri, passed away May 8, 2015 at his home. He was born in Cheyenne, WY to Curly & Mae Hancock in 1941. Larry moved to Kansas City in 1942 and has been in Independence since 1954. He worked for Missouri Gas Energy for 43 years, retiring in 2001. Larry was a devoted family man and friend. He was the Coach of the Hi-Boy Drive-In baseball team for 25 years. He played baseball for years, was President of Queen City Umpire Association, and umpired for 15 years. Larry was Vice President of Heart of America Plymouth Club and restored his own 1938 Plymouth Coupe, winning many awards. He enjoyed playing Santa every year. Larry had a love of music. He volunteered for Missouri Western State University Marching Band when his son was in college, and for Truman H.S. & Fulton H.S. Marching Bands with his grandchildren. Larry is survived by his wife of 55 years, Ann of the home; son, Terry Hancock of Independence; daughter, Shari (Paul) Given of Fulton, MO; 4 grandchildren: Sydney & Noah Given and Eastin & Terry Jr. Hancock; sister, Janice Holland of Bates City, MO; 4 brothers, Mike (Charlotte) Hancock of Raymore, MO, Doug (Fran) Hancock of Waggaman, LA, Barry Hancock of Farmington, MO, & Steve (Cindy) Hancock of Independence; and many beloved nieces & nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held Tuesday, May 12th at Christ United Methodist Church, 14506 E. 39th St., Independence, beginning with a live musical tribute for Larry at 7:00 p.m., followed by visitation. Burial will be May 13th at Rosebank Cemetery in Mulberry, KS. The family suggests contributions be made to the church or Animals Best Friends. Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, MO 816-690- 4441

Published in Kansas City Star on May 10, 2015