LARSEN, Don
1945-2011
Born in Comox, B.C. on November 18, 1945, Don Larsen passed away on September 22, 2011.
He is survived by his loving wife Judy, his son Allen (Chelsea), his daughter Carmen (Jacek); his cherished grandchildren, Mira, Nickolas, Audrey, Leni and Esmé; his mother Pearl; his siblings Scott (Jennifer), Karen (Frank) and Robert as well as a large extended family. Don was predeceased by his father John Larsen, and stepfather Merv Lewis.
Don grew up in the Comox Valley and with the exception of 14 years in Alberta, he made his home here. In his earlier years he worked for various companies in an executive capacity and owned his own business in Alberta. He worked in Courtenay as manager of Central Builders’ Supply for 19 years and for many years he was on the Board and was the Chair of IRLY Distributors. In the last several years he worked for Crown Isle Resort and more recently consulted on various projects being known as “the man who gets things done”.
Don believed deeply in community service. He was a member of the Courtenay Rotary Club for 24 years, some of those years spent on the executive. He was president of the club in 1999-2000, and a Paul Harris Sustaining Member. He reluctantly withdrew from Rotary when his desire to travel with Judy meant he could not commit the time that he felt was necessary to be a member in good standing. Don was a supporter and former Board Member with the Comox Valley Community Foundation. When the Olympic Torch passed through the Comox Valley in November 2009, Don was the volunteer who coordinated the set-up for activities at Lewis Park.
Don was a man of honour and integrity, and he could not be compromised.
Don enjoyed curling, square dancing, traveling and camping with Judy. Memorable trips include their two dream trips: a cross-Canada tour in 2006, and then all through Alaska, Yukon and the Northwest Territories in 2008. When not on the road, his favourite pastime was being “Harbour Master” from the deck of his home, keeping check on the flights, tides, bird fly-bys, and cruise ships. He was on the deck before sunrise and for most sunsets.
Don looked forward to parenthood and never regretted a moment with his children. His grandchildren were an added bonus to his already wonderful life. He felt lucky enough to be blessed with two wonderful children and five beautiful little grand-people. Family was everything to Don.
A memorial service will be held September 29, 2011 at 2 pm at St. George’s United Church in Courtenay.
As a tribute to Don, support your family with love, your community with service and your fellow man with respect.