Larry Dale Smith

Larry Dale Smith, 71, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, formerly of Fremont, Nebraska, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, surrounded by family, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids. In agreement with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A Ceremony celebrating Larry’s life will be held at 3 p.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Marion, Iowa, officiated by Amy Hart, Certified Celebrant. Following the service, the family will greet friends until 6 p.m. A private family committal will take place at a later date.

Larry was born on February 21, 1954, in Springfield, Missouri, one of eight children to Robert “Bob” and Vera (McCart) Smith. He was a graduate of Fremont Senior High School in Nebraska and went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Army, until 1973. On July 4, 2003, Larry was united in marriage to Gloria Jean (Reiter) Purvis in Fremont. Larry had a long career, working various positions with Valmont Industries, until his retirement in 2019.

Larry was many things to many people: a devoted husband, a proud dad, a fun-loving papa, and a loving brother and friend. One of the greatest joys in his life was his family. Larry's love for Gloria was apparent and never ending. They enjoyed spending time with family and friends together and their home was the place to be when celebrating their anniversary every Fourth of July. In retirement years, Larry spent much of his time with Gloria trying out many local restaurants. He was a proud papa that especially cherished time with his grandchildren, delighting in their laughter and always finding ways to make them smile.

Laid back by nature but decisive when necessary. He was known for sharing his thoughts freely- whether you asked for them or not- and somehow making you glad he did. His honesty was never harsh; it came from a kind heart and a genuine desire to help those he cared about. He showed his love through presence, guidance, and a quiet reliability. He had a unique way of showing up for others when they needed it most, offering support, humor, or honesty when it mattered.

Larry enjoyed sports and fishing. He was a lifelong Nebraska Cornhusker fan and loyal to the St Louis Cardinals- holding his ground even when surrounded by family cheering for the Cubs and Hawkeyes. The debates were frequent, good-natured and usually ended with a grin- but sometimes a pout.

He will be remembered for his big heart, his love of family, his unwavering pride in those he loved, and the way he made people feel welcomed and cared for. His presence will be deeply missed, but the memories, laughter, and love he shared will live on in all who knew him.

Larry is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife of 22 years, Gloria Smith; children, Emily (Bobby) Hoyer and Ben (Laura) Purvis; grandchildren, Caleb and Libby Hoyer; nephew, David (Dee Dee) Bachman; siblings, Brenda (Tim) Krupka, Nancy Burke, Rhonda Abshire, Karen (Steve) Cornell, and Robert Smith; as well as many other nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Vera Smith; sister, Judy Montaque; brother, John Smith; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Louise and Ernest Reiter; sister-in-law, Karen (Al) Bachman; and two nieces, Judy Lynn Coon and Andrea Bachman.