Larry Gianakos

Hastings resident Larry “Coach” Gianakos, 86, passed away on Monday, August 11, 2025, in Hastings, NE, surrounded by his loving family. 

Private graveside services will be held at a later date. There will be no viewing or visitation. Memorials may be made to the Yellowstone Forever charitable foundation. 

Larry was born on April 29, 1939, in Alliance, NE, to Everett and Marguerite (Rapp) Gianakos. A standout athlete at Mitchell High School, he captured the gold medal in the 100-yard dash at the 1958 state track meet. He went on to attend Kearney State College, where he played football and ran track. During college, he met the love of his life, Rosaleen Gallagher. They were married on May 6, 1961, and together raised four children: Kevin, Brad, Laurie, and Pete. 

After teaching at schools in the Sandhills, Larry and his family settled in Blue Hill. He found great joy in coaching, cherishing the bonds he built with his players—relationships he maintained throughout his life. 

Larry loved spending time in Yellowstone National Park, woodworking, playing cards, fishing, and never turning down a second (or third) piece of dessert. Above all, he was devoted to his family, and the hole he leaves in our hearts is immeasurable. 

Larry was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Donna; and his son, Brad. 

He is survived by his wife, Rosaleen Gianakos; children, Kevin, Laurie (Mike) Boyd, and Pete (Lisa); grandchildren, Morgan (Ryan) Fjeldheim, Connor (Cole) Ashby, Hunter (Sydney) Fischer, Gunner Fischer, Ginny Gianakos, and Kyra Gianakos; and great-grandchildren, Rae, River, and Arlo Fjeldheim, with a great-granddaughter arriving in January.