Larry Gene Ruble, 84, passed away peacefully May 17, 2025, surrounded by family and friends at Via Christi St. Francis, Wichita, Kansas. He was born on July 16, 1940, in Great Bend, Kansas, to James and Opal (McClane) Ruble. He married Ruth Ann (Pashia) Dunaway; they later divorced.
A lifetime Barton County resident, Larry retired as an automotive body technician for Dee Dove’s after a 32-year career. He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion Post 286, Fraternal Order of the Eagles, and VFW Post 3111 and Post 7428. Larry enjoyed hunting, fishing, volunteer work, and working with his hands through woodworking, welding, or other projects he took on. He loved spending time with his family and friends.
Survivors include daughter, Michele Esfeld and partner Jeremy Long of Great Bend; son, Larry James “Jimmy” Ruble and wife Kimberly of Onalaska, Texas; five grandchildren, Brent James Esfeld of Great Bend, Karly Esfeld of Great Bend, Tyler James Esfeld and wife Mystique of Conroe, Texas, Josh Guthrie and wife Brenda of New Castle, Colorado, and Crysti Flores and husband Johnathan of Onalaska, Texas; four great-grandchildren, Jason Flores, Eli Flores, Evelyn Guthrie, and Reese Ruble, with another great-grandson on the way; niece, Kim Hekele and husband Mike of Odin; and five great nephews, Jason and wife Ashley Hekele, Jacob Hekele, Caleb Hekele and wife Katy, Jeff Ruble and wife Jessica, and Tim Ruble and wife Kelsie; and numerous loved ones.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brother and sister-in-law, Dean and Natalie Ruble; and nephew, Kirt Ruble.
Visitation will be held from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 22, 2025, with family receiving guests from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., all at Bryant Funeral Home. Funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Friday, May 23, 2025, at Bryant Funeral Home, with Ron Bailey presiding. Interment will follow at Hoisington City Cemetery. Memorials have been designated to Sons of the American Legion Post 286, American Legion Post 286, or Kans for Kids, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS 67530.
Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.
Funeral arrangements provided by
Bryant Funeral Home
1425 Patton Road
Great Bend, KS 67530
Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, May 20, 2025
