Larry Eugene

Edel

Larry Eugene Edel, 67, of Colo, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, November 8, 2026. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and man of faith. Larry lived a life defined by perseverance, determination, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to his family.

Larry was born on February 19, 1959, in Marshalltown, Iowa, and grew up on his family’s farm near Zearing. He graduated from NESCO High School in 1977 and continued farming into adulthood. In his younger years, Larry enjoyed snow skiing, boating, hunting, and spending time outdoors.

On November 17, 1984, Larry married Amy, beginning a marriage built on love, faith, and commitment that endured through life’s greatest joys and challenges.

In 1990, Larry experienced a life-changing farming accident that left him paralyzed. Rather than allowing his circumstances to define his future, Larry demonstrated extraordinary determination and resilience. After his accident, he attended school at Iowa State University, pursued a career in accounting, and went on to work for Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield for 21 years. His dedication to providing for his family was a reflection of the love and responsibility he carried throughout his life.

Taekwondo was one of Larry’s greatest passions and an important part of his legacy. As the owner of Nevada ATA Martial Arts, Larry devoted countless hours to teaching, mentoring, and inspiring students. Having achieved the rank of second-degree black belt before his accident, he continued his martial arts journey and ultimately earned the distinguished title of Seventh-Degree Senior Master. Along the way, he trained two world champions and became recognized as one of the highest-ranking martial artists with a disability. His perseverance and dedication served as an inspiration to his students, fellow instructors, and everyone who knew his story.

Above all, Larry’s greatest joy was his family. He and Amy built a life centered on faith, love, and commitment. He treasured time with his sons and grandchildren, who will fondly remember riding on Grandpa’s wheelchair and answering his impromptu math quizzes. Through life’s challenges, Larry remained a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who quietly demonstrated what it meant to put others first.

Larry’s Christian faith was the foundation of his life, guiding him through both triumphs and hardships. He will be remembered for his kindness, determination, and the countless lives he touched as a father, grandfather, teacher, and friend.

Larry is survived by his loving wife, Amy Edel; his sons, Logan (Kate) Edel and Colby (Ashlee) Edel; his five grandchildren, Peyton, Lincoln, Isabelle, Emrie, and Amilia; his brother, Merle (Steph); his sister, Cheryl and countless nieces and nephews.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents Tony and Virgina Edel, sister Diane Mannetter, and infant niece Monica Grasty.

A visitation will be 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home, 1418 Fawcett Pkwy in Nevada. A memorial service will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the Colo First United Methodist Church, 602 4th Street, in Colo with Pastor Nikki Ross-Bishop officiating. Larry will be laid to rest privately at the Colo Cemetery in Colo.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Larry’s family (please make checks payable to Amy Edel), for their use to be determined at a later date.

Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home in Nevada has been entrusted with caring for Larry and is handling the arrangements. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.rasmussonfh.com.