Lorris “Larry” Clark Rice

Lorris “Larry” Clark Rice was born at his family home on January 5, 1938 in Pickering, MO to Champ and Sylvia (Baldwin) Rice. He passed away peacefully at home in Ainsworth, NE surrounded by family on April 21, 2024.

The youngest of four children, Larry grew up on a small farm north of Pickering. Larry’s sister, Shirley, recalled that he was born a broadcaster, doing “play-by-play” of his own basketball games in the yard. Larry officially began his broadcast career in 1956 doing local high school news under the guidance of his English teacher. Larry graduated from Pickering High School as valedictorian. Larry worked as a part-time employee at KNIM Radio in Maryville, MO while attending Northwest Missouri State University.

In 1957, he auditioned for a position at KFEQ television station in St. Joseph, MO. His career in television included being a weatherman and part-time children’s segment as co-host, Cousin Elmo.

He married Linda Keever on June 26, 1959. He then transitioned to a full-time radio position at KBKC in Kansas City. While working at KNIM, he met and worked with Gil Poese. In 1959, Gil invited Larry to join him to “make something of this place” as part-owner of a radio station, KBRX, in O’Neill, NE. In 1968, Larry moved his family to Ainsworth to start KBRB which began broadcasting on February 6th. They, along with other employees, went on to start other stations in Norton, KS and Gordon, NE.

Known for his love of sports, he committed hours of service to broadcasting local sports for community schools in the tri-county area. He also supported KLIN with stats of Husker football from the mid-1970’s to mid-1980’s. He was inducted into the Nebraska Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 1993 and retired from broadcasting in 2009.

Larry lived a life of service in the Ainsworth community through broadcasting community and athletic events. He was a member of the Ainsworth Lions Club and Elks Lodge #1790, and served a term as Mayor. He felt that service to his community and others is what made the world a better place. He was a listener, always curious about what others thought and wanted to tell their stories. He modeled this life by working with many in the community, including training many high school students in the radio business.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Donnis Rice; sisters, Shirley Foster and Glenda McCleave; and a niece, Melanie Mc-Cleave.

Survivors cherishing his memory include his wife, Linda Rice of Ainsworth; four children, Natalie (Neil) Miles of Lincoln, NE; Eric (Amy) Rice of Gothenburg, NE; Lorinda (Lonnie) Connelly of Lincoln; and Kyle (Mary) Rice of Parkersburg, IA; nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Doug (Caroline) Keever of Maryville, MO; along with nieces, nephews and other family members.

Funeral Services were held Saturday, April 27, 2024 at the Lila McAndrew Gymnasium in Ainsworth, NE officiated by Pastor Charles Kieffer. CD selections of “How Great Thou Art”, “Blessed Assurance” and “Old Rugged Cross” sung by Alan Jackson were played. Obituary reading and personal memories were given by Rachel Rice and Caden Connelly. Casketbearers were Caleb Rice, Kolbi Rice, Caden Connelly, Tyler Miles, Drew Miles and Lonnie Connelly. Honorary Casketbearers were Dr. Jerry Ehlers, Dr. David Spann, Dr. Brad Williams, Doug Keever, Randy McCleave, Randy Brudigan and all of Larry’s other family and many friends. Interment followed in the Ainsworth Cemetery in Ainsworth. Memorials were suggested to the family in Larry’s name for future designation. Hoch Funeral Home of Ainsworth was in charge of arrangements and condolences may be left for the family at www.hochfuneralhome.

com Responded to a medical alert alarm in Ainsworth. It was found to be a false alarm and the individual was reported safe.

During traffic stops on this day a citation was issued for failure to yield, and no valid registration. A written warning was also issued for speeding. Wednesday, April 24th

The Brown County Ambulance Association responded to a 911 call, west of Ainsworth. One patient was transported to the hospital and was later transported to the airport to meet an aircrew.

Responded to a report of cattle on the roadway near Highway 7 and 877th Road.

Thursday, April 25th

Responded to a report of suspicious activity on Walnut Street in Ainsworth. No criminal activity was found at this time.

During a traffic stop near Osborne and South Street in Ainsworth, a ATV driver was issued a citation for no flag, registration and speeding.

Friday, April 26th

During traffic stops on this day citations were issued for no valid registration and improper/defective vehicle lighting. A written warning was issued for speeding and operating an ATV without lights/flags.

Saturday, April 27th

Provided traffic control for a funeral procession.

Responded to a report of a loose dog near 2nd Street and East City Park. No dog was found at this time.

During a traffic stop near 3rd and Harrington a written citation was issued for expired registration and no proof of insurance.

Responded to a business on 4th Street reporting a theft. Received a report of suspicious activity near East City Park. Responded to a report of cattle on the roadway on Highway 7, near mile marker 29.

Weekly Summary Totals

Phone Calls: 108. 911 Calls: 5. Incident Reports: 15. VIN Inspections: 4.