A Missouri parish is in mourning following the tragic death of Father Larry Huber, a much-loved priest who died in a motorcycle accident on 9 April. The 61-year-old clergyman, who led the Immaculate Conception Church in Park Hills, was fatally injured when his motorcycle collided with a vehicle on Route V in Jefferson County.
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Reports indicate that Father Huber was riding a 2008 Honda VTX1300 northbound when a 54-year-old woman from Imperial, driving a 2023 Ford Bronco Sport, made a left turn onto Mount Olive Road. The priest attempted to brake but tragically lost control of his motorcycle, which skidded into the side of her vehicle. Despite wearing a helmet, he died at the scene. Fortunately, the female driver was uninjured in the incident.
The Missouri Highway Patrol has yet to release a statement regarding the accident, but the news has sent shockwaves through the local community, particularly among Father Huber’s parishioners, who are grappling with their loss.
Immaculate Conception Church released a heartfelt tribute to their former leader, expressing that he was more than just a priest. The church stated, “Fr. Huber was a shepherd, a teacher, and a faithful servant who touched countless lives with his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love for Christ and His Church.” The message further described how he shared in both the joys and sorrows of parish life, guiding his congregation back to God through his gentle strength and compassion.
Having attended Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in Shrewsbury, Missouri, Huber was ordained in 1995. Throughout his ministry, he served at multiple parishes across the state before taking up his position at Immaculate Conception. He was known for his commitment to community outreach and was deeply invested in fostering spiritual growth within his parish.
In 2016, Father Huber co-founded the Community for Transcendent Men, a initiative aimed at encouraging men to embrace their roles as spiritual leaders within their families and communities. His dedication to uplifting others extended into his broader parish work, as he sought to reinvigorate rural parishes and provide robust spiritual leadership.
Jeremy Boyer, an organist in the archdiocese, spoke highly of Father Huber’s impact, noting his special rapport with rural congregations. “This was a person who gave his all for the priesthood,” Boyer remarked. “This was a priest who worked every day to bring people closer to God, closer to heaven.” His passion for ministry was evident in the respect and admiration he garnered throughout his time in service.
Father Huber’s passing leaves a significant void in the lives of many who knew him. His funeral service is scheduled for Friday, 17 April, in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, where it is expected that many friends, family, and parishioners will come together to celebrate his life and legacy.
As the community navigates this profound loss, tributes continue to pour in, demonstrating the lasting mark Father Huber made through his unwavering devotion and impact on those he served. The outpouring of grief reflects not only the loss of a beloved priest but also a cherished friend and mentor to countless individuals.