Larry W Ogden

Larry Wayne Ogden, 73, of Atkinson, NE, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2024, at West Holt Memorial Hospital following a brief illness, with his devoted wife of 51 years, Marlene, by his side. Born on January 29, 1951, in Payette, Idaho, to Betty (Thompson) and Sherman Ogden, life brought him to Ainsworth, NE in 1958 when his family relocated. Growing up as one of 12 siblings, Larry experienced a lively and spirited childhood filled with playful mischief and cherished moments, fostering deep and lasting connections with his brothers and sisters.
After graduating from Ainsworth High School in 1969, Larry moved to Atkinson, NE. In Atkinson, he met Marlene Poessnecker, and the two began dating in 1972. Their love blossomed quickly, and they were married on January 27, 1973, at Zion Lutheran Church in Ainsworth, NE, beginning a beautiful life together. Their union was blessed with three children: Angie, Crystal, and Jeremy.
On July 2, 1972, Larry was baptized, confirmed, and became a Saint John's Lutheran Church member in Atkinson, NE. His faith was a guiding force throughout his life where he served on the church council, and he found great comfort and strength in his church community.
Larry had a lifelong passion for farming, which he cherished deeply. He started his farming career at P & P Feedlot. He then worked at National Farms for 17 years where he eventually became the farm manager. Later, he began farming for R&T Farming, a job he loved more than anything, for 30 years.
In 1992, Larry began working for the State Department of Roads. In 2005, Larry and his coworker were honored with a public service award for their heroic efforts in rescuing five individuals during a dangerous blizzard. After a long and fulfilling career, he retired from the State Department of Roads in April 2015.
Larry took great pride in caring for his lawn. Whether mowing, trimming or simply admiring the fruits of his labor, he found peace and joy in keeping it immaculate. It reflected his love for the outdoors and his knack for hard work and attention to detail.
Larry had a deep love for simple pleasures, especially taking long drives with Marlene through the countryside they both cherished. He was also known for his daily morning stops at First Stop, where he enjoyed a breakfast sandwich and visited with friends and familiar faces.
His greatest joy came from his family, especially his 13 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Whether attending their events or cheering them on from the sidelines, Larry was their biggest fan and proudest supporter.
Larry is survived by his wife, Marlene, of Atkinson, NE; children Angie (Casey) Schaaf, Crystal (Andy) Osborne, and Jeremy (Sara) Ogden, all of Atkinson, NE; 13 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings: Jerry Ogden (Pat) of Lawrence, KS; Don Ogden (Ellen) of Atkinson, NE; Janet Hoffman (Gary) of O'Neill, NE; Gary Ogden (Pam) of South Sioux City, NE; Judy Hagan (Steve) of Atkinson, NE; Joan Greger (Dan) of Stuart, NE; Joy Raasch of Marathon, IA; Jean Hamilton (Mark) of Lincoln, NE; Janice Ogden of Lincoln, NE; and sisters-in-law Jane Ogden of O'Neill, NE, and Kerry Ogden of Kingsley, IA.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Betty and Sherman Ogden; brothers, Terry and Bill Ogden; nephew, Brian Ogden; great-nephew, Christian Miller; and mother-in-law and father-in-law, Dorris and Eugene Poessnecker.
Serving as pallbearers are Chad Deseive, Bruce Rossman, Ryan Olson, Drew Olson, Riley Olson, Blaine Fix, Scott Mueller, and Austin Cook, all lifelong friends from jobs over the years.
Larry's kind and welcoming spirit made him a friend to all; he never met a stranger. Whether sharing stories, offering a helping hand, or cheering on his grandchildren, Larry's warmth and genuine care for others left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.