Larry Kimes

Larry Joe Kimes, 83, of Bristol, IN, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on July 7, 2025, after a brief illness. He was born on March 5, 1942, in Elkhart, IN, to Mary Ellen (Hubbard) and Ralph Kimes. Larry grew up in Bristol and graduated from Bristol High School in 1961. He was always proud of his roots and spoke often and fondly of his hometown and upbringing.

Larry honorably served his country in the United States Air Force from December 18, 1963, to December 12, 1967, achieving the rank of Sergeant. He took great pride in his service and remained a true patriot throughout his life. After his time in the military, Larry pursued his passion for aviation. He attended Southwestern Michigan College, where he graduated in 1971 with an Associate's degree in Aviation Mechanics. His technical expertise and work in aviation brought him much fulfillment.

On March 8, 1969, Larry married the love of his life, Cindy Schell. Together, they shared more than five decades of love, laughter, and a deep commitment to family. Larry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, with a heart full of pride for each member of his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Cindy; daughters Jennifer (Andy) Yeager and Julie (Rob) Gibbs; grandchildren Tiffany (Kyle), Corey, Andrea, Zack, Amber, Brad, Emily, and Ean; and two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by many cousins and extended family members. Larry was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Misschell Kimes, and his grandson, Oliver Yeager—both of whom held special places in his heart. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Mary Ellen and Ralph Melvin Kimes; his paternal grandparents, Merl and Mary Catherine (Silveus) Kimes of Elkhart, Indiana; and his maternal grandparents, Joseph and Catherine (Gilbert) Hubbard of Bristol, Indiana.

To his grandchildren, he was affectionately known as “Grandpa Grump”—a nickname that captured his dry wit, quick humor, and the special bond he shared with each of them.

Larry was an avid fan of IU basketball and the Chicago Cubs. Whether cheering on his teams or reminiscing about past games, his enthusiasm for sports was infectious.

He worked for many years at Conn-Selmer, where his dedication, strong work ethic, and friendships left a lasting impact on those around him.

In addition to being a devoted family man, Larry had a lifelong love of the outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing. Since 1999, Larry also cherished spending time in Florida with his Florida family, a group of people who held a special place in his heart.

Visitation for Larry will be from 4 to 8pm Thursday July 10, 2025 at Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home, 1531 Cobblestone Blvd., Elkhart, IN 46514 and from 10am to 11am, Friday July 11, 2025 at the funeral home where funeral services will be at 11 am Burial with full military honors will follow the service at Trout Creek Cemetery, Bristol.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society, 5635 W. 96th Street, Ste. 100, Indianapolis, IN 46278 at www.donate3.cancer.org in Larry’s honor. Online condolences may be left at www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com