Larry Bentsen

Larry Ray Bentsen, 72, of Odessa, Missouri passed away Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at CenterPoint Medical Center surrounded by his loving family.

Larry was born in Beatrice, Nebraska on September 16, 1951, to Raymond and Betty (Baker) Bentsen. Larry graduated in 1969 from Osage City High School in Osage City, KS. Larry proudly served from 1971-1974 in the United States Army as a special bandsman, driving trucks for the United States Army Field Band across the country. Following his military service, Larry attended DeVry, Wentworth, and Park Colleges. He received a Certificate in Electronics Technology, an Associate in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s in Computer Applications/Management. Larry was united in marriage on August 30, 1980, to Anita Grace (Bell Williams) Bentsen in Kansas City, Missouri. The Bentsen’s have resided on a farm outside of Odessa since 1987. It was here he spent many hours outdoors taking care of his cows, chickens, and pastures. Larry worked for Alstom in Warrensburg, Missouri as a Software Verification and Test Engineer. He was employed by Alstom, GE Transportation, and Harmon Electronics throughout the last 45 years at locations in Grain Valley and Warrensburg. He was lovingly referred to as “Larry the Legend” by family and friends. 

Larry recently was accepted into the Catholic faith. He was a devoted Kansas City Blades hockey and KU basketball fan. Larry had a special place in his heart for his family. Along with spending cherished time with his grandkids, Larry enjoyed reading, watching old westerns, Top Golf, bingo, reading his cattle forums, traveling back to Beatrice, and gardening. He lived well and was well loved, providing a shining example of what a husband, father, and grandfather should be.

Larry is survived by his dedicated wife, Anita Bentsen; five children, Elliot (Kathryn) Bentsen, Evan (Betsy) Bentsen, Ethan Bentsen, Ellyn (Mitchell) Wilson, and Emery (Jessica) Bentsen; six grandchildren, Oliver Wilson, Adalaide Wilson, Malachi Porto, Whitley Bentsen, Alexander Bentsen, and James Bentsen; his beloved brother, David Bentsen; one brother-in-law Joe Melley; one sister-in-law, Joyce (Allen) Zimmerschied; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.   

Along with both his parents, Larry was preceded in death by a stillborn son, Erryn Bentsen, his beloved sister, Linda Melley and a niece LaDonna Conrad. 

A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Friday, February 16, 2024, at Ralph O. Jones Funeral Home, 306 S. 2^nd St., Odessa, MO, 64076, 816-633-5524. Due to his love for Hawaiian shirts, the family has requested visitors and coworkers wear Hawaiian shirts in honor of Larry. Burial will be held at the Odessa Cemetery following private services. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mayview Fire Protection District. Memories and condolences may be left at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on our Facebook Page.