08/12/2025
Beloved husband, father, grandfather, pastor of many, and friend to everyone he met, the Reverend Larry Hansmeier died peacefully on July 5, 2025, surrounded by family members. Born in Aberdeen, Washington, in 1944, Larry forged his own path in high school, college, and seminary, where he excelled in oratory, music, and student government. He courted and married Jonna Cobbs while both were attending Northwest Christian College. Ordained in the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Larry served congregations in Sacramento, CA; Woodland, CA; Modesto, CA; Las Vegas, NV; and Kennewick, WA. He was also a volunteer chaplain at Sunrise Hospital in Las Vegas for many years. Throughout his career, he enjoyed working with youth, who affectionately called him “peach blaze” on account of his sartorial choice. His ministerial style combined a deep care for people, a scholarly understanding of the Bible, and a hearty sense of humor. Larry was a dedicated minister, but he took pride in being a family man. In spite of his demanding work schedule, he often cooked breakfast for the family and attended his daughters' after-school and weekend speech tournaments and sporting events. Larry also took meticulous care of his lawn and great pleasure in grilling for his family and friends. After retiring from the ministry, he became a sommelier with a special affection for the red wines of Washington State. It was hard to meet Larry without becoming his friend. This happened everywhere he went, from microinteractions with waitstaff to conversations with strangers. Once, he met a family whose moving truck had broken down in Barstow, CA. Larry recruited family members and passersby to load everything into the church van he was driving. Ultimately, he transported these strangers and their possessions to Las Vegas, where he offered his church as a temporary storage space. This is how Larry treated everyone. He was a true follower of Christ in this regard, as in many others. On July 3, he celebrated his sixtieth wedding anniversary with close family in attendance. Even though his health had been declining, this was a joyous occasion. Now, he rests in peace with his Lord. Larry is survived by his loving wife, Jonna; his daughters, Sheri and Krista; sons-in-law, Floyd and Dan; and his four grandchildren, Claire, Ben, Jack, and Cash. Before passing, Larry expressed the wish that there be no formal memorial. Krista suggested–and the family agreed–that we could honor him by supporting his favorite charity, the annual CROP Hunger Walk on October 19. If you would like to donate to this cause, please send a check to the First Congregational Church of Reno (UCC) on 627 Sunnyside Drive, Reno, NV 89503 with “in honor of Larry Hansmeier” on the memo line. Checks received before October 19 will be consolidated for donation to the national event. If you would like to participate in the walk itself, please call or send a private message to Jonna Hansmeier.