Laurence Anthony Souza, 84, passed away on January 16, 2026. He was born on January 15, 1942, in San Jose, California, to Laurence and Margaret Souza, and was the oldest of five children.

Larry grew up on a dairy farm, where he learned the values of hard work. Those qualities followed him throughout his life and into a long and dedicated career with General Motors. His work eventually brought him to Kansas City, Missouri, where he would meet his wife, Kathyrn. The two were married on January 1, 1986, and shared many happy years together, building a life filled with love, laughter, and mutual devotion.

One of Larry's greatest passions was amateur (HAM) radio. He was an active member of multiple HAM radio clubs in San Jose and Kansas City and a proud member of ARRL for 65 years. Achieving the highest license level, Extra Class. Through the airwaves, he formed friendships and connections that spanned many years and many miles and loved helping people find there own interest in the hobby.

Larry was also a talented cook, a skill he learned from his mother and a devoted animal lover, taking great joy in the companionship his pets (and strays) throughout his life. He was also known for his quick wit and great sense of humor, which remained with him even during his later years and brought smiles to those around him, including the nursing staff who cared for him. Larry was a great friend to many including his lifelong friends, Jim DeMartino, Dan Chambly, Mike Ditton, Richard Durbin and Heidi Lewis.

Larry is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Kenneth Souza; and sister, Gloria Helten. He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his wife, Kathryn "Kathy" Souza; daughters, Stacy Souza and Stefani (Carl) Schreiber; stepchildren, Julie (Robert) White and Cary (Stacey) Powell; grandchildren, Tyler Schreiber, Hailey Schreiber, Robert White, Tim Powell, Nick Powell and Hunter Powell; brothers, Bill (Nancy) Souza and Richard (Karen) Souza; sister-in-law, Louise Souza; and brother-in-law, Ray Helten.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Larry will be laid to rest at Terrace Park Cemetery.