McKINNEY, Larry L. 1947-2021

MCKINNEY, LAWRENCE, SPILDE

Posted By: Tammy (email)
Date: 1/5/2022 at 08:08:11

Larry L. McKinney (74) of Cedar Falls died Friday, September 24, 2021, at Allen Hospital. He was born September 22, 1947, in Cedar Falls, Iowa, son of Lewis and Lorraine (Lawrence) McKinney. He grew up in rural Dunkerton and attended Dunkerton High School. On July 2, 1968, he married Linda Spilde in Waterloo, Iowa.

Larry spent his life serving others. He enlisted in the US Army and served in Vietnam from 1966 to 1969. He returned to Iowa, and joined Waterloo Fire and Rescue in 1973, retiring in 2002. Over 29 years he held many positions including general firefighter, driver, EMT, and training officer. He retired as a decorated and respected Lieutenant. Following retirement, Larry continued his fire service career as an inspector, from 2004-2010.

Larry was a man of faith, demonstrated by his second career in the ministry. Ordained on June 1, 2000, he served as chaplain for the Black Hawk County Sheriff's Department (10 years) and Waterloo Fire and Rescue (22 years). Larry was pastor of the Hammond Avenue Brethren Church for six years, retiring in 2018. For most of his life Larry was an active member of Open Bible Church, where he also served as relief pastor.

Larry loved spending time with family and friends. His favorite activities included reading, fishing, and playing cards. But, above all else, his greatest joy was helping people. If you were his neighbor, he cleared your snow and freely offered his time and tools. If you were his friend, he would be at your side whenever and wherever he could lend a hand. If you were part of his congregation, he would drop everything to ease your burden. If you were family, there is nothing he wouldn't do to make your life easier. If you knew Larry McKinney, he probably helped you at some point, and you likely didn't have to ask.

He is survived by his wife, Linda; son, Jeff (Ami) of West Des Moines; daughter, Pam (Dennis) Craun of Waterloo; grandchildren, Lana, Nile and Calvin McKinney and Kayla and Daniel Craun. Larry is preceded in death by his sister, Judy.

... I want to fill my calling and to give the best in me, to guard my neighbor and protect his property. And if according to your will I have to lose my life, bless with your protecting hand my loving family from strife. - Firefighters Prayer

Public Viewing
October 1, 2021
Open Bible Church
928 Jefferson, Waterloo, IA 50701

Memorial Service
October 2, 2021
Open Bible Church
928 Jefferson, Waterloo, IA 50701

--Locke Funeral Services (lockefuneralservices.com)