Larry Burnell, 66, of Grinnell, died on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at Harmony Marshalltown Nursing Home in Marshalltown, IA.

Per his wishes, Larry will be cremated and his remains scattered in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Smith Funeral Home is assisting with cremation. A celebration of Life will be held at later date.

Larry Dean Burnell was born on September 29, 1958, in Grinnell, IA to Merle Hayes and Charlotte Jean (Black) Burnell. He was raised in Grinnell and attended Grinnell High School before earning his GED through Job Corps. He pursued further education with one year of college at Black Hills State University. Professionally, Larry worked on oil rigs and as a journeyman millwright for various construction companies until retiring due to disability.

Larry found joy outdoors through hunting, trapping, motorcycling, and enjoyed watching drag racing. His passion for beekeeping was evident in the care he devoted to his hives, producing honey that he proudly sold at local farmers markets. A man of many interests, Larry had a remarkable talent for fixing and repurposing items others had discarded. He was an avid collector and found joy in giving new life to forgotten treasures.

Larry is survived by his mother, Charlotte Burnell; son, Terry Burnell; one grandson, Anthony Burnell, siblings, Norma Griffith, Loren (Sondi) Burnell, Deb (Ron) Montgomery, and Addison (Michele) Jensen; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Merle Burnell; brother, John Burnell; and brother-in-law; Jack Griffith.