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Larry Stewart Obituary
Stewart, 58, had fought cancer of the esophagus since April. He died around 1:50 p.m. at St. Luke’s Hospital.
The Lee’s Summit man didn’t let his illness keep him from one last spending spree this Christmas season, giving away a total of $100,000 to people who responded with hugs, tears and whoops of joy.
Just before Thanksgiving, Stewart went public with his identity for the first time in 26 years as Kansas City’s mysterious Secret Santa.
His Secret Santa giving totaled more than $1.3 million, and he also supported numerous charities, from the Salvation Army to the YMCA and the ALS Foundation.
He hoped that by going public he could inspire more selfless giving by others. It could be $100 or $5, cookies for a neighbor or a favor for someone who was down.
After Stewart shared his life story, he enjoyed reading e-mails of support that came to his Secret Santa Web site. He especially liked hearing from people starting their own family tradition of giving to strangers at Christmas.
The outpouring of love and prayers overwhelmed him, he told The Star last month.
“This has just completely caught me off guard,” he said, sobbing. “It’s heartwarming. The tears that I have are tears of joy, and I just want everybody to know that I am deeply grateful.
“This was never intended to be about me. I’m just doing what the Lord is directing me to do. I’m just a pair of hands and feet. He’s using me. He’s lightened my path. … Part of my daily prayer was ‘Lord, let me be a better servant.’ I had no idea this is what he had in mind, but I’m happy. I’m so thrilled that he is able to use me in this way.”
Memories and Condolences
for Larry Stewart
304 Entries
Dionne Halbison
November 24, 2009
What a blessing to be a cheerful giver.
joey sumlips
April 29, 2007
You really made a big difference!!
Dale Carson
March 5, 2007
I grieve for my friend, but I rejoice in his reward with the Lord. Larry how wonderful to know that a childhood friend from Bruce had such a heart. I knew you were special, but I never knew just how special untill recently. Hopefully, I will be one of many to carry on your legacy.
I hope to one day meet you family. Maybe I can share a few more memories of your childhood.
Chris Tayrien
March 2, 2007
Larry Stewart touched my life in such a way that I cannot explain so I will just relate the events as they unfolded. My son, Tylor Tayrien was killed in a car accident in front of his house going to school on 12/03/04 and Larry witnessed the rescue efforts of the emergency personnel. He came up to me during the first memorial service and proceeded to tell me of the events that unfolded as he witnessed them. I was surprised at how emotionally upset he was while telling me his story as he didn't know me or Tylor. As I recalled this event in the days that followed I was truly astounded at the empathy he had for me and my family. I visited him a week later as there was memorial items/crosses being left in front of his property and I also wanted to give him Tylor's journal and get to know him a little better. I am not from around KC so I wasn't aware of the Secret Santa. When I found out this was him, I still did not realize the far-reaching impact he has had until his story got out into the media. The gift he gave me cannot buy anything but hopefully some of his spirit was given to me for others to see. He will be missed.
Michael Sczepanik
February 27, 2007
I hope I have the same opportunity to give like he has
Shereen Taheri
February 23, 2007
What a WONDERFUL man! We need more giving and caring people like this wonderful role model.
Michelle
February 20, 2007
I would like to say that even though I never met him he was a great man. Hope to have more of people like him in the future.
Jody Hill
February 17, 2007
Thank you for setting a positive example in a world full of negativity. We will all miss watching the happiness you gave to others during Christmastime. You truly were an Angel on Earth. May your wings spread wide in the skys above. God bless you.
Patti
February 10, 2007
I was hoping to write to Larry Stewart to tell him of the inspiration he has given to me and my family, and was saddened to see that I no longer have that opportunity. However, I do believe his energy is still with us as we continue with the motivation of his soul. I am grateful for Larry Stewart.
Lisa J
February 8, 2007
Mr Stewart has renewed my faith in the human race. Thank you for setting the example of loving thy neighbor.
Felicia Clemmons
February 8, 2007
I've never met Mr.Stewart personally but I know he has helped so many unfortunate people in Kansas City Missouri and may God bless him for that. You are now in a much better place where there's no more suffering. Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you. You are loved and missed so much.
Kristerfer LaDuke
February 7, 2007
Originally from KCMO, I understand the heart and spirit of Kansas City, and this great person lived it... It's truly special to impact the lives of the ones whom have been graced by your presence, but it's even more amazing to impact the lives of ones whom you have never met. I have never had the priviledge of meeting Mr. Stewart but my life has definitely been impacted by his will! God Bless You!!
Teresa Balducci
February 7, 2007
I watched this wonderful man on T.V. this past year when they revealed who Kansas City's secret Santa was. I cried like a baby through the entire show. If only some of us could be so good this world would be a much better place. I am sure he has a special place in heaven.
Deborah Holden-Johnson
February 6, 2007
You have renewed my view of mankind. Your many acts of kindness to others in need will be greatly rewarded in heaven and should inspire others. May God continue to bless you and your family.
DANA Janus
February 5, 2007
WHAT A WONDERFUL MAN! MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND WALK WITH YOU IN HEAVEN. SAY HELLO TO MY MOTHER WILL YOU. YOU WILL BE IN GREAT COMPANY. THANK YOU FOR SHOWING MANKIND THAT THERE IS GOODNESS IN THIS WORLD. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS DURING THIS TIME OF SADNESS.
Jeff H
February 3, 2007
I don't know anyone with as much spirit and hope that this saint displayed. God Bless Larry Stewart.
K
February 3, 2007
You did this out of love. In return you recieved more love than anyone person may ever know. You were a hero to many ,god bless and good luck . Where ever you are I hope God is with you.
Inwoo Yoon
February 2, 2007
It gave me such joy to read about him during countless Christmases in Kansas City. It was a sad news I read in Salt Lake Tribune that he passed away. May he rest in peace with God's love.
February 2, 2007
Romans 8:28:
28And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
US Navy Sailor
San Diego, CA
ELIAS
February 2, 2007
TO BE SO KIND YET HARD TO FIND IN HEARTS TODAY YET SOME REMAIN.
OWEN MALICOAT
February 2, 2007
I'M SO GLAD TO HAVE KNOWN AND DID BUSINESS WITH THIS MAN HE WAS SO COMPASSIONATE FOR OTHERS...AHD ENJOYED LIFE AND HIS FAMILY..HE WILL BE DEARLY MISSED.WE WILL CELEBRATE IN THAT OTHER WELL DSERVED PLACE W/ OUR LORD..SEE YA
Tyller bohl
February 1, 2007
I am so glad that he had such a big heart. He made others so happy!!!
R.I.P.
Michelle Mc Carthy
February 1, 2007
I met you when I came to KC in 2001, You had a positive impact on my life with your generous gift when I needed it most, I will forever be grateful.
JULIE SLAUGHTER
February 1, 2007
YOU HAD A BIG HEART AND TOUCHED ALOT OF PEOPLE IN NEED YOU WILL BE DEEPLY MISSED JULIE SLAUGHTER
ward bond
January 31, 2007
you are an example to us all,thank you,you will not be forgotten.
Yolanda Manning\ Williams
January 31, 2007
I read an article about you last year when you revealed who you were. I teared up reading the heart-filled blessings you've brought to so many people. You're truely an angel.There's so much bad news these days. I thank you for bringing joy in Kansas City.
Clarice Howlett-Doolin
January 28, 2007
You were one in a million, your spirit will live on in the many elfs that you left behind
Tami Casey
January 24, 2007
What a gift from God you were, Larry. I only knew you for a couple of years while you were busy recording with Doug Davis. I had no idea that YOU were Kansas City's secret santa. I am sorry that I didn't know sooner so that I could have thanked you as so many others have. I am proud that I was able to meet you. What a special place in heaven you must hold. You are an inspiration to us all. May God Bless your family. You will be truly missed.
Tami Casey
January 24, 2007
What a gift from God you were, Larry. I only knew you for a couple of years while you were busy recording with Doug Davis. I had no idea that YOU were Kansas City's secret santa. I am sorry that I didn't know sooner so that I could have thanked you as so many others have. I am proud that I was able to meet you. May God Bless your family. You will be truly missed.
Mark Siebert
January 24, 2007
Over the years one of the things that made the Christmas Season extra special and reminded all of us that Christmas is a time for giving was Secret Santa. And thanks to the local media and all the elf's we had the chance to experience his generosity in the news. I am excited to see what next Christmas will be like with all the new Secret Santa's dedicated to keeping Larry Stewart's legacy alive!
Vicki Turnbow
January 23, 2007
My husband, Kris, and I have known Larry for a long time and are blessed to have called him our friend. We will miss him terribly and know he smiles down on us all. Remember even the smallest act of kindness can be life changing for someone.
elaine vaughn
January 23, 2007
i too have cried when i saw the joy you brought to so many people.I never had the privilage of meeting you ,but so many times it gave me the courage to keep trying in tuff times,knowing that truly great people do exist.
Holly P
January 22, 2007
What a sweet and gentle soul. His story inspired so many and the last chapter was truly his greatest gift to Kansas City and the rest of the country.
Our collective prayers are with his family and friends in this difficult time.
Don Thellman
January 21, 2007
Larry, you knew how to experiene true happiness here on Earth. Something tells me you are now experiencing the ultimate joy. Thanks for being such a great example to us all.
Michelle Jennings
January 21, 2007
For years I have watched Secret Santa on KMBC-TV and cried each year and thanked God for a man so kind and giving and asking nothing in return. He perservered this Christmas even though he was so ill. He has been an inspiration to people around the world. Even though his life has burned out, his star shines brightly in Heaven. He will be missed and never forgotten.
Emily Craver (Hogan)
January 20, 2007
I never met Mr. Stewart, but was friends with his son, and if his son is any indication of how he was, he was a loyal friend who could make anyone smile and anyone who was lucky enough to know him and his family is blessed. I know no words can take away the pain of losing someone, but I want you to know my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Angela Langdon
January 20, 2007
Larry, thank you for your presence on this earth. I felt like I had just lost one of my own family members, and the odd thing about that, is, that I never even met you. What a wonderful man you are, and you will be truly missed, and not just for what you gave out, but to know that someone as good as you are in heart, is gone.(a rare find you are).
Michelle Penrod
January 19, 2007
Though I never meet Secret Santa I hold him close to my heart. He makes us remember that there is still good in people. Long live his legacy.
Brandie Campbell
January 19, 2007
The thought of you, your life and your cause will always inspire me and warm my heart.
"To live in hearts we leave behind
Is not to die." ~Thomas Campbell
Sue Triplett
January 19, 2007
You will be missed
Teri
January 19, 2007
I'm so grateful Mr. Stewart went public with his story before his death. His sweet spirit was an example of meekness at it's biblical best. Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Clause.
Rev. John Smith
January 19, 2007
May God bless the soul of this wonderful saintly man and guide him safely Home!
I am sure that he truly blessed the lives of so many people and renewed their faith that someone really cared about them.
May God remember all of the good things he did in his lifetime and bless him so abuntantly in the next.
I am sure he was loved and appreciated and will be very much missed!
Ted Murray
January 18, 2007
I knew Larry but wish I had a chance to know him better and longer. He has achieved something most of us never will which is to be remembered for his good work for a long, long, long time. Good work Larry!
Mary Alice Harding
January 18, 2007
We can all learn by his generosity.
Michelle Compos
January 18, 2007
Mr. Stewart:
I havn't had the honor of meeting you, but I have to say I have heard so many good things about you! I love that you have touched so many peoples lives. You are a great man and you will surely be missed around KC!! We really need more people like you, with a very kind heart.
YOU WILL BE MISSED, BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN!!!
MAY YOU REST IN PEACE!!!
Misty
January 18, 2007
Mr. Stewart was a very generous man who never let the wealth go to his head. He is an insperation to all.
Wayne Crosby
January 18, 2007
Heard about how he helped take care of some nurses in need at a local lees summit hospital. I commend him and his family for the help they gave to those in need, especially the nurses I heard about!
Thanks!
Sharon K Martin
January 18, 2007
I met Larry when I worked at Blue Springs Bank & I knew of all the wonderful things that he has done. My heart goes out to all his family & friends for their loss. He has touched so many lives with his generosity & smiles. May you be comforted by all the happy memories & friends & family that surround you now. You are in my prayers.
Tex and Judy Watson
January 18, 2007
To the Stewart family my sincere condolences, thanks for sharing him with the world. I have never meet such a human being, he was here for such a short time but he did what he loved doing, not just giving money away, there was so much more to this man, he loved to make people laugh and smile and would do so, then watch from a distance. he was like this year round not just at Christmas time. My husband and I had the pleasure to go on a sleigh ride on Christmas Eve one year, it changed our lives forever. His book was a delight to read thanks Donna McGuire for capturing this on paper. There are a lot of people that will miss him and think about him everyday along with his family. What an inspiration to all, if everyone could do just one random act of kindness, and it does not have to be just money, as Ray Charles said "What a wonderful world it would be"
Lewis Howery
January 18, 2007
MY condolences go out to his family. IN this world of turmoil its nice to know there are people still out there like Larry. THe world has lost a very good person. I will never be in the postion to do what he does, but i will do my best. he made a impression on me like nobody else.
Rest In peace
Mr. Stewart
LER
January 17, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Anon.
January 17, 2007
Your generosity has inspired me to continue your legacy in my area of Georgia. It can't be on as grand a scale as your gifts, but I will do what I can. I am a professional Santa, and I pledge to give away half of my "Santa money" each year.
Melinda, Lindsay & Logan
January 17, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends. You were an inspiration and will continue to be one for so many.
You made Lindsay and Logan ELFs in December 2006 and touched their lives in a way that they will never forget.
Thank you for restoring the true meaning of Christmas in so many hearts
A New Secret Santa Helper
January 17, 2007
This man was a true angel on Earth.
He has brought out the Secret Santa in all of us. His legacy will live on in those touched by his love and generosity.
H. Byrne
January 17, 2007
No doubt you're spreading joy in Heaven, Santa. I know a number of people who knew and worked with you. Fortunately, I did get to meet you one time. I'm sure you slid through the pearly gates on your sled. Thanks for all you did on earth and God bless and comfort your family. May you rest in peace.
ELF
January 17, 2007
My condolences to the family in your loss. I never met Larry, but I feel I know him. I was never handed money by him, but he gave me so much more as an example. I may never have the financial means to pass out $100 bills, but that doesn't stop me from adding an extra $5 tip to the waitress. I will choose to remember him a way he would appreciate. I will continue to add that $5 and when someone asks me why, I'll politely say, "Because I'm an Elf!"
Faye Martinez
January 17, 2007
My condolences to the Stewart family. Your father was a great man with a huge heart. His generosity will alway be remembered.
Eric Toland
January 17, 2007
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Stewart, Borberg, and Rathke families. Larry was a very nice and unique person. What he did for this community was 2nd to none. The world just lost a very special individual. You will be forever missed.
joann frazier
January 17, 2007
May the pearly gates be opened wide for you.
Lisa
January 17, 2007
The news piece I saw regarding Mr. Stewart's acts of kindness and genorousity touched me deeply. "Well done, good and faithful servant" are the words I am sure he'll hear when he meets our Lord in heaven.
mary
January 17, 2007
May songs of angels welcome him into the holy city.
Linda J
January 17, 2007
I did not know Mr. Stewart but my thoughts and prayers are with his family. My son's girlfriend was able to buy her children presents last year from her gift. She was so excited. I would love to be able to give the way he did--but: give what I can when I can.It is a wonderful, exciting feeling to give and make someone happy (if only for a moment.)Memories of someones genrosity lasts a lifetime. May it be a comfort to know thoughts of Larry will go on and stories will be passed on for many years to come. And may there be many elves continue your work. Peace to you Larry..
Ranan Eiserer
January 17, 2007
You give me comfort when I start to doubt. Amen.
Debra Miglionico
January 17, 2007
Your family has been blessed with such a lovely and giving man. I pray for peace and comfort for you in the days ahead.
Roberta Rayford
January 17, 2007
I met Mr. Stewart while he was in the hospital, drew his blood a couple of times. Never met a nicer person in my entire life, he is truly a man sent from God to do good works. We were blessed from his presence on earth, and he will be missed.
Cathy West
January 17, 2007
I just recently learned of Secret Santa and was so moved by his story. What a wonderful person! I pray for all of you and hope that more people emulate Mr. Stewart's life.
With my deepest love and sympathy,
Tracy Cavanaugh
January 17, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with the Stewart family. Larry has done what I wish I could do. I just found out who he was this year. He will live on in all of our Hearts.
Jim Devine
January 17, 2007
Larry has affected me in more ways which I still do not know. He lives in my heart and hearing his voice on the phone always made me smile. And being with him ...always made me realize that I was in a special presence. Now, when in doubt, I ask: what would Larry say or do?
t rossell
January 17, 2007
I never met Larry, but I didn't need to. His example helped bring the significance of Christmas back to me. Larry was a great example of Christ-like love. Christ gave and loved without passing judgment or qualifying one's needs. In a time when Christmas can so easily be overshadowed by commercialism and hustle and bustle, Larry's example returned the luster of the Christmas season for me. I've already asked my family to provide a service and help someone in need this next Christmas in lieu of a gift for me. I want them to show someone love and kindness, and then tell me about it in private. I know Larry's helping someone in need in a much better place. I hope his family will take comfort in the love and legacy he left behind.
Greg & Michele Sniegoski
January 17, 2007
For all the good that Larry has done... He will be rewarded. We only read in the paper what this man has done. May he Rest In Peace!
Steve Alabaster
January 17, 2007
Reading about the passing of Larry Stewart in the USA Today solved a wonderful mystery that touched my family a number of years ago. We were flying from Seattle to Sacramento when there was a commotion occuring in the mid section of the plane. Asking what was happening, we were told that a man was giving away $100 bills to whoever came to his seat. Indeed my wife and son went up there and came back with huge smiles and 2 $100 bills and a red rose. I had to go see for myself what was happening and saw a very happy man giving out $100 bills and single stem red roses. There was so much happiness surrounding him. He gave the bills and roses to all the flight attendants, and nobody knew who he was except that his name was Larry.
His giving continued outside the plane and into the terminal and to the baggage area where a person met him. When he was getting his bag, I went up to the woman and asked who he was and what was his story. I was told his name was Larry Stewart and he was just a little crazy (with a twinkle in her eyes that I noticed but now I know why). She said he likes to do this kind of thing every so often.
All these years we never knew who he really was but would think of him when we gave money to the homeless in Seattle. He was truly a saint and my family is "richer" than money could ever create by having touched our lives, if only for a very brief time, with Larry.
God Bless him and keep him,and Grant him peace.
Marsha Bigham
January 17, 2007
I never met him but I admired him and vowed that if I ever got rich I would do the same thing. I've always been a giver and I can see how it meant so much to him to give. I cried when I heard of his death. God bless you Larry and I know there is a special place in Heaven reserved for you!!!
Matthew Musyimi
January 16, 2007
Larry although cancer robbed this community of your generosity, it cannot erase the memories we have of your good deeds. Well done able servant of God! I know heaven is smiling and welcoming you with open arms. Thank you for the countless lives you touched.
christian shahan
January 16, 2007
Being an angel on earth comes with very very big shoes to fill but knowing his son, i think mark will fit in them very nicely. i have enjoyed the few precious moments that i have shared with the family, i wanted to let them know that my heart is with them in these troubleing times.
Sarah Ireland
January 16, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with the Stewart family. Mr Stewart will live on in all of our Hearts.
Debbie Gilmore
January 16, 2007
I meet Larry at an Eastern Jackson County Youth Court meeting at the Sherriff's Department. I had been told in advance who he was. What impressed me the most was that he was just a plain ordinary guy, no airs or looking down his nose at people. To me that says it all. I call Larry a Man of the common folk. He cared about the everyday people.
I have also gone to school with or worked with a good portion of his in-laws who are themselves of the common people. Everyone should remember their humble beginings and strive to help others. Larry was an excellent steward of that teaching.
Please except my sympathy for your loss. I know that you have had a great loss, but God has received a humble servant into his arms.
May God Bless you and keep you.
Terry Bush
January 16, 2007
I never met Mr. Stewart but the good he did for members of this community is the example that everyone should try to emulate. You are now in God's hands. Rest Well and know that you have done good things for the community. Once again Thank you for being you.
Tim Mullin
January 16, 2007
My deepest sympathies to Larry's family.
Back in 1974-75, I worked with Larry at Rollins Protective Services selling burglar alarms. As I type this, I keep looking over at the picture of Larry and his happy face reminds me of some of the office practical jokes that took place so long ago. Larry was very good at sneaking into an empty cubicle, calling into the office with a disguised voice, and convincing many of us that we had an easy sale at hand. What a joker! One night while prospecting on the phone, Larry got up to refill his coffee. This was an opportunity for fellow prankster Al Herrera and myself to plant flash paper amongst the butts in Larry's ashtray. After our prank startled Larry with a flash and poof, he grinned and said "Touche!"
I recall a poker game after which Larry somehow ended up owing me about fifty dollars or so. I also remember leaving the office with Larry for lunch a few days later. Somehow we ended up at the old
Smiley's driving range where Larry cleverly lulled me into a "closest to the pin" pitching wedge contest. Larry cleaned my clock! He not only won back his fifty dollars, but I ended up owing him about the same! Can you guess what Larry did next? Eventhough his finances were quite tight at that time, on the way back to work he suggested that we just call everything even. As he grinned, I eagerly accepted his friendly gesture!
I soon moved to Florida and did not cross paths with Larry until the mid 80's. Larry and his partner were well on their way with Network 2000 and they bought a few Cadillacs at Jack Roach Cadillac where I was working at the time. Still, it took a few more years before I figured out who Secret Santa was.
From the burglar alarm days, I knew that Larry was just a "good ol' poor boy from Mississippi". I also knew that Larry was very successful with his business endeavors. I always enjoyed reading about Secret Santa's generous exploits each December, but in 1995 or so, it suddenly dawned on me that it was Larry and the final proof was a picture in the paper. It was a picture of a burly forearm and bear paw hand offering several hundred bills to an elderly lady sitting in her old car. I knew that big hand and forearm from poker games years ago,...it was indeed Larry Stewart! I soon called Larry at Network 2000 to congratulate and thank him for doing what he was doing and of course, Larry asked that I keep his secret under wraps. I called and/or exchanged emails with Larry a few more times during the ensuing Christmas seasons. We had a few chuckles and I always told Larry that his secret was safe with me.
To Larry's family: I have felt humbled and honored in knowing and keeping Larry's secret over the years and this always made reading about his many good works all the more special. During the Salvation Army radio fund raiser for Christmas 2005, I called in a donation and told the operator to tell Larry that it was from "Timoteo Gomez", an office nickname bestowed upon me by none other than Larry himself over thirty years ago. As Larry announced the donation "from my old friend Timoteo Gomez", it seemed like I could also "hear" the twinkle in his eyes! Larry was a oner!
God Bless your dear Larry!
Mike The Elf
January 16, 2007
I will become one of your Elves. I may not be able to pass out Bejamins but i will do my part
Dean Rouba
January 16, 2007
Over the last few years I have been influnced by your actions and it is good to see your actions have inspired others to be more like you. I know that god will use your talents.
Lois Sheppard
January 16, 2007
I grew up in KC and haven't lived there for 20+ years but I love the city and you have definitely made it a much more wonderful place with true kindness from your heart to strangers - God is blessing you now.
Barbara Samuels
January 16, 2007
Old Death has walked a lot these past few months and taken some great people, among them Buck O'Neil and now, Larry Stewart. My heart is saddened again. I don't understand these things, but I guess it's not my place to query God's plan, only become a better person because of the legacy they left behind. Buck and Larry were good friends who shared a common bond - a great love of mankind, which was evidenced by their generosity to others during their lifetime. What a beautiful sight it was to see - Santa and his Elf working together-giving unselfishly. It was my honor and great pleasure to have worked with them both. To the Stewart family, God's continued blessings upon you and keep looking to the hills from whence comes your help, as your help comes from the Lord.
Nora Charles
January 16, 2007
We hear the phrase "why doesn't somebody do something!" -- Larry Stewart decided to be that Somebody. He gave in good times and in bad times -- and is a model for all of us.
Jenna Link
January 16, 2007
What a blessing! Thank you for everything.
Patricia Darrah
January 16, 2007
Dear Secret Santa may you share many joys with the Lord. Thank you for your generosity.
Dana Barker
January 16, 2007
Dear Larry and Family,
I am so sorry for you loss, I knew Larry and just never realized that he was Secret Santa, Larry you have touched so many lives in the past years, you have touched my life in so many ways that I can't even begin to count. I want to Thank you for helping me teach my children that it is always better to give than to receive. Larry may god bless you in all the ways that you touched others. my heart,prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. You will always be an inspiration to many, Please let all of your angels fall onto others.
Molly Jones-Peterman.
January 16, 2007
Thank you Santa.
Anon.
January 16, 2007
You were an Angel put on this earth by the Lord to do good works, now you are with the Lord.
Paulette DeMatteo
January 16, 2007
Met Larry & Paulette about three years ago when we all got together for dinner in celebration of his son Joe's birthday. Knew he was the Secret Santa, but my son told me to say nothing. Found it difficult not to stare at him in awe. Joe has been to my home twice for my son's Birthday Dinner, and was just there two days after the special on Channel 9 in December. When Joe walked in, repeated to him what Larry had said on the interview: "When you have Christ in your corner, it's good either way". My sincere sympathy is extended to the family and pray the Lord will give them Peace during this difficult time and the days, months and years ahead. Not to worry, we will see K.C.'s Secret Santa again. In the meantime, he doesn't have to suffer here on earth any more. Love & Blessings,
Tracy Teetor
January 16, 2007
Mr. Stewart is the true definition of an angel. An angel on earth and an angel in heaven. You touched my life and I will carry a piece of your kindness with me every day. God bless you.
Jean Oltvedt
January 16, 2007
God bless Larry and his family. Thank God for people like him in our world. As for hoping there are more people out there like him, let's BE those people, starting NOW.
rita Vaca
January 16, 2007
God Bless Larry Stewart
Kathryn
January 16, 2007
May God Bless Larry Stewart and his family and friends! What a wonderful and generous man! He will truly be missed, but never forgotten!
Stephen Sullivan
January 16, 2007
May God reward you with his Eternal love and peace. Well done good and faithful servant. Our tears send you on your journey. God bless you and your family.
John B
January 16, 2007
Larry was my uncle and i knew for many years that he was the secret santa in kansas city, though i never told anyone because i really never thought about it being THAT special because he was always like that around me and our enitre family, which is very large.. but now i see the impact that he had on people and i am so happy and proud that he was my uncle. his son (which obviously is also my cousin) is one of my best friends and i can see in him what larry taught him, and it makes me sad that now i only realize how happy he made other people outside of our family.. he will be missed by all.. he was a truely great person, father and uncle..
Susan Reed
January 16, 2007
May God bless the Stewart family at this time of sorrow! Thank you, God, for allowing us to 'borrow' Larry for this too short period of time to show the world how Christ would want us to live! Thank you, Larry, for letting the world know that good things are happening in Kansas City, Missouri, and will continue to happen, even though you are gone. You've left a great legacy!
Jim Velghe
January 16, 2007
Dear Bubba:
Thank you. As a friend you gave companionship, laughter and love. As a mentor you gave opportunity and taught the joy of unconditional giving. Thank you, for the privilege to call you friend. You have set a standard of caring, compassion and giving for us all to live up to. May you rest in the warmth of Gods love.
Tara Phillips
January 15, 2007
For all the smiles & laughter- THANK YOU
For all the "Christmas Stories"- THANK YOU
For the everlasting friendship you gave to my Dad & my family- THANK YOU
YOU WILL ALWAYS BE WITH US.
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How to support Larry's loved ones
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