Remembering Officer Larry D. Minard, Sr.
Officer Larry Dean Minard, Sr. was born on August 20, 1940, in Fremont, Nebraska. He had five children: Charles and Claudia Minard, Carol, Charlotte, and Larry Jr.
Larry attended Sherman Elementary School and later graduated from Technical High School in 1957. It was there that he met his sweetheart, Karen Valien, and the two were married in 1958.
In late 1958, the couple moved to Long Beach, California, so Larry could pursue his Naval career. During his time in the Navy, Larry traveled to Japan, Thailand, and the Philippines. He served as a Naval Reservist for six years.
While living in Long Beach, Larry and Karen welcomed two children, Carol and Larry Jr. After Larry Jr. was born, the family moved back to Omaha, Nebraska, where they had their third child, Claudia.
In 1962–1963, Larry joined the Omaha Police Department, where he served proudly for seven years. He worked in the same North Omaha community he called home. The 1960s and 1970s were a time of significant social unrest, with many radical groups emerging—some openly hostile toward law enforcement.
Officer Larry Minard was tragically killed while responding to a call on North 28th Street regarding a woman screaming. He encountered a booby-trapped briefcase containing three sticks of dynamite, which exploded at a residence near Ohio Street and North 28th Avenue.
Larry’s dedication to service, compassion for others, and commitment to his community left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. Though his life was cut short, his legacy of courage, love, and duty continues to be honored by his family and the community he served.
“Even fifty years later, your sacrifice continues to be remembered and honored. May the Lord hold you and keep you. Rest in peace.”
Inside of larry's life
Larry had a dog named Ugly, sometimes called Cindy, but most often known as Ugly. She was a Chihuahua who loved Larry deeply. On the day of his funeral, she crawled up onto his pillow and passed away as well.
Larry was an avid hunter, fisherman, and all-around outdoorsman. He loved spending time outside, listening to country music, and enjoying a cold beer.
His family had planned a birthday party for him and hid his gifts in the bottom drawer of his wife’s dresser—Old Spice cologne and Mennen aftershave. Larry wore both, giving him that familiar “dad” scent his family fondly remembers.
His Programs & Responsibilities
Dedicated Protector
Family & Love
Upholding Justice
Legacy & Inspiration
MEMORIAL DONATIONS
Help us preserve the legacy of Officer Larry D. Minard, Sr.
Serve & Protect
You may not walk beside me, but I feel you in every decision, every breath, every heartbeat.
You may not walk beside me, but I feel you in every decision, every breath, every heartbeat.
Frequently asked Questions?
1. Where and when was Larry Dean Minard Sr. born?
Larry was born on August 20, 1940, in Fremont, Nebraska, to Charles and Claudia Minard.
2. What was Larry’s military service like?
Larry served as a Naval Reservist for six years. During his service, he traveled to Japan, Thailand, and the Philippines.
3. What career did Larry pursue after returning to Omaha?
Larry joined the Omaha Police Department around 1962–1963 and served for seven years, working primarily in the north part of Omaha where he lived and was well known.
4. What were some of Larry’s personal interests and characteristics?
Larry loved hunting, fishing, the outdoors, country music, and beer. He was known as a devoted family man, a loving son, and someone who expressed affection openly— including visiting his sister before each shift to kiss her eyelids and tell her he loved her.