Obituary

Lawrence Stephen Nagel, a man of remarkable character and boundless
charisma, passed away on March 18th, 2024 while surrounded by his
loving family. Born on January 20, 1952 in Kansas City, MO, he lived a life
that overflowed with kindness, laughter, and unwavering dedication to
those he held dear. Larry is survived by his wife, Mary; 3 daughters, Sarah
Eckert (Alex), Tessa Nagel (Gary), and Jessica Cox (Ryan); 3 grandsons,
Will, Gus and Elliott; sister Kerry Joseph (Tom); and many nieces and
nephews. Larry was preceded in death by his parents Lawrence Rudolph
Nagel and Patricia Purcell Baer, sister Janice Joseph (Greg), and brother
Jerry Nagel (Becky).
Larry was kind, dependable, and endlessly charming. On the other hand,
he was ornery at his core, always looking for opportunities to incite
laughter. His infectious sense of humor and zest for life made him a joy to
be around, leaving a mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him. An
incredible storyteller, Larry had a gift for captivating audiences with his tales
of adventure and humor. His anecdotes were woven with vivid detail,
leaving listeners rolling with laughter or rolling their eyes in amusement.
The natural-born salesman, Larry effortlessly captivated everyone he
encountered with his charm and wit.
Larry was described as being intense at work and play. The saying “Work
Hard, Play Hard” describes Larry to a tee. He found joy in competition of
any kind. Whether it was a game of softball, basketball, backyard volleyball,
or aiming to steal the traveling golf trophy from his brother, Jerry, on the golf
course, he approached every game and work day with enthusiasm and a
competitive spirit. His love for the water was evident in his passion for
water skiing, tubing on the lake, and serving as the esteemed captain of the
boat—a title he wore with pride as “Lawrence of Raintree.”
Despite his many interests, family was at the heart of Larry’s world, and he
cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. A devoted husband to
his beloved wife Mary Monica for over five decades, their love story was
one for the ages. Together, they raised three daughters, who Larry adored
with all his heart. As a “tortured girl dad,” he took delight in their antics and
achievements, reveling in the unique bond they shared. The arrival of three
grandsons brought great joy to Larry’s life, and he doted on them. Their
laughter and presence brightened his days, and he cherished every
precious moment spent in their company.
In the hearts of those who knew him, Larry leaves behind a legacy of love,
laughter, and unforgettable memories. He will be deeply missed by his
family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
As we bid farewell to Larry, let us take comfort in knowing that his spirit will
live on through the countless lives he touched and the enduring memories
he created. May his laughter continue to echo in our hearts, and may we
honor his legacy by living each day with the same zest for life and love that
he so beautifully exemplified. “His lord said to him, “Well done, good and
faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you
ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.” Matthew 25:23
Lawrence Stephen Nagel, forever remembered, forever cherished. Rest in
peace. Services will be held in Lee’s Summit, MO. The family invites you to
the visitation on Sunday, March 24, 2024 from 3:00-5:00 pm at Langsford
Funeral Home. A celebration of life will follow the visitation at Konrad’s Tap
House, 302 Main Street. A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held on Monday,
March 25, 2024 at Our Lady of the Presentation Church at 10:00 am. In lieu
of flowers, donations may be made to Literacy KC 3036 Troost Ave.
Kansas City, MO 64109

Arrangements by Langsford Funeral Home, 115 SW 3rd Street, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063