Larry Ray Karn

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Larry Ray Karn, who passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, at the age of 85.

He was born and raised in Lake City, Iowa, and was the oldest of six children. Larry was raised near both sets of grandparents and was especially close to his Uncle Terry Roberts. They were like brothers and did everything together. Larry loved to tell stories about their antics in Webster City, Iowa. Larry also liked to hunt rabbits and squirrels and would have to take them to his grandmother’s house where she would cook them for him because his mom refused! Larry excelled in athletics and was captain of the basketball and football teams as well as Boys All State his senior year of high school. Larry lived a life marked by kindness, dedication, and love for family and friends. He was known for a warm heart, generous spirit, and unwavering commitment to those around him. Larry would do anything to help others. He was a single Father of three children by the age of 23. Larry raised the children, worked full time on the night shift, and earned a college degree all at the same time. When asked what his greatest accomplishment was, he remarked that it was “raising you three kids.” Larry received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Northern Iowa in 1966. In 1970 he married the love of his life, Karen, and they enjoyed many years of happiness together. Whenever you saw Larry and Karen walking together, he would be holding her hand.

Larry started as an Associate Supervisor and worked his way up to Technical Supervisor and eventually the Operations Manager of a manufacturing facility. He took great pride in his work and kept in touch with the workers on all 3 shifts. Outside of work, he enjoyed all sports including basketball, football, wrestling, and golfing. He was an avid runner and ran many races. He also enjoyed bicycling. Larry biked across Iowa numerous times with family on the RAGBRAI bike ride. He was an avid outdoors man and enjoyed hunting, fishing, rafting, and gardening. Larry was an incredible woodworker and the family handyman as he could fix anything. He found joy in spending time with loved ones and was an animal lover who doted on his pets.

Larry is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Karen Adeline (Reynoldson) Karn; children, Randall Ray Karn (Deb), Laurie Ann Rinkenberger (James), and Kimberly Jo Karn; grandchildren, Katie Lusero Christenson, Kelly Amos, Josh Amos, Brittany Neigh, and Mac Lusero; great-grandchildren, Gavin Christenson, Sierra Rodriguez, Westin Neigh, and Wyatt Neigh; great great-granddaughter, Annalyse Rodriguez; two brothers, Neal Karn and Todd Karn; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Marilyn Lee (Roberts) Karn and Donald Ray Karn; and sisters Judy Karn, Jean Fahan, and Linda Lathrum. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A private celebration of life was held with immediate family. May Larry’s memory bring both comfort and peace to all whose lives he touched on his journey. Online condolences, www.MontgomerySteward.com