Larry Joe Vlasin, 68 of Crete, Nebraska died a peaceful death after a courageous battle with cancer on Friday, February 12, 2016 at the University Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. Larry was born on July 22, 1947 in Imperial, Nebraska to Joseph and Charlotte (Todd) Vlasin. While growing up in Madrid, Larry was an outstanding athlete and an avid participant in football, basketball, baseball, track and field. He was drafted by the Kansas City Athletics in the first ever MLB draft. His career in the minor leagues lasted six years where he had the opportunity to play alongside several teammates who went on to become major league legends. During the baseball off-season, he attended McCook Community College where he met his wife, Carol (Bunnell) Vlasin and married in 1967.
In 1970, Larry chose to return to Nebraska. He graduated from Chadron State College and coached high school sports; first in Culbertson, then Cozad, Gordon, and McCook. His passion was for teaching others and coaching young athletes. He began working for New York Life in 1979. His family-centered nature and gift for serving people propelled his financial career as he focused on helping others build secure futures. He rose quickly to become one of the top agents in the company his first year.
His love of sports and outgoing nature led him to a radio broadcasting career that spanned years. He worked alongside his good friend Max Brodersen and their sidekick Rich Barnett. He enjoyed outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing and maintaining his vegetable garden. He loved his dogs and all dogs loved him. His proudest moment was when he was inducted into the Nebraska High School Athlete Hall of Fame in 2008. He loved his family and enjoyed attending his grandchildren's school activities with his wife, Carol. He was so proud of every one of his children and grandchildren. He will be missed. May he rest in peace.
He is survived by his wife Carol of Crete, Nebraska and his children: his daughters Julie Kent and husband, Adam of Crete, Nebraska; Deb Rohrich and husband, Curtis of Wood River, Nebraska; Rebecca Soden and husband, Kris of Boulder, Colorado; Teri Potter and husband, Jake of Denver, Colorado; his son, Ryan Vlasin and wife, Jennifer of Omaha, Nebraska; and his grandchildren, Spencer Rohrich (16), Koby Soden (16), Carter Kent (15), Sydney Rohrich (13), Jack Soden (9), Beau Rohrich (8), Kylie Potter (3) and Sam Vlasin (3). He is also survived by his siblings Ron Vlasin and Connie McClenahan. He is preceeded in death by his parents Joe and Charlotte Vlasin.
Services are Tuesday, February 16th at 2 pm, United Church of Christ, Crete. Viewing 2 hours prior to services at the church. Interment: Riverside Cemetery, Crete. Memorials are in care of the family for future designation.