Larry Alan Wheatley

Larry Alan Wheatley, 61, of Nevada, Mo., passed away Feb. 13, 2015, at the Nevada Regional Medical Center. He was born Nov. 12, 1953, at Butler, Mo., to Wayne P. and Doris W.L. (Essenpries) Wheatley.

Larry grew up on the family farm, east of Rich Hill, among many Wheatley family members. He attended Rich Hill schools all 12 years and graduated in 1971. He attended Central Missouri State University, in Warrensburg, then transferred to St. Luke's School of Nursing and received his Registered Nursing degree. Until his death, he was continually adding education to his career. He was in health care his entire life, working over the years at Bates County Memorial Hospital (was also on the Board of Directors), Willow Lane Nursing Home (served as administrator), Nevada Regional Medical Center, Missouri State Hospital, in El Dorado Springs, and was currently with Pathways Developmental Services, in El Dorado Springs.

He was a member of the Rich Hill Christian Church. He enjoyed working in health care and while in high school, was referred to as "Doc." He was involved in all sporting activities at Nevada High School and also, the Nevada Griffins. One of his life highlights was attending the Democratic National Convention in 1972.

Larry was preceded in death by grandparents, Fred and Nell Wheatley, and Orville and Thelma Essenpries. He is surved by his parents, Wayne and Doris Wheatley; brother, Terry and his wife, Ruth; niece, Tara Wheatley; and a great-niece, Avery Wheatley. Also his second family, Chaire, Tina, Anna, Jimmy, and Bill, and their families; plus numerous uncles, aunts, cousins, and a host of friends and co-workers.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 18, at the Heuser Funeral Home, in Rich Hill, and will be officiated by Brother Bill Perkey. Interment will be in Green Lawn Cemetery, Rich Hill.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Rich Hill Memorial Library, or the Rich Hill Lions Club Foundation.