Elmer Munden

Elmer Joseph (Larry) Munden, 92, of Olathe Kansas passed away November 24, 2014. Elmer was born on December 24, 1921 in Garden Plains, Kansas to Walter and May Munden.

Elmer was a devoted Catholic and loving father, husband and grandfather who lived for moments when he could be surrounded by his family and loved ones (with ear plugs in). He graduated from Creighton University in Omaha Nebraska with a Bachelor's degree in Economics.

He enlisted in the United States Army Air Force as an Aviation Cadet in August of 1942, and flew the B-25 Bomber, "Milk Run", in the South Pacific. He received the Bronze Star for "meritorious achievement in connection with military operations against the enemy in the Philippine Islands from November 14, 1944 to April 24, 1945", and was honorably discharged in June of 1945.

After being discharged from the service, he met and fell in love with Clarice Dorothy Calabria. The two were married in St. Ann's Church in Omaha Nebraska on February 23, 1946. He worked as a salesman for several companies before beginning his career with Shulton, Inc. (Old Spice), where he worked his way up to National Sales Manager and retired after 35 years.

Elmer was an avid fisherman, loved working with wood, and built several pieces of beautiful furniture that are still being loved by the family today. He taught himself how to paint, tie fishing flies and paint lures, and build fishing rods. He loved working with his hands and making things. Even in recent years, after the deterioration of his vision, he built bird houses and feeders.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Violet Collins, and his brothers Clarence and Howard Munden.

Survivors include his wife Clarice; daughters Kerry Walters, Denise Russell, and Kathleen Rhodes; son Michael; nine grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may given to the St. Jude's Children's Hospital or The Wounded Warrior Project.