Mylon Jay Larsen

Mylon Jay Larsen was born on January 26, 1938, to Carl and Gladys Larsen, at home in the small community of Stark Valley, nestled between Plainview and Pierce, Nebraska. He was the third of four children, growing up in a close-knit family that would shape the values he carried throughout his life.

The family later lived in Pierce and Pilger before moving to Omaha in 1955, where Mylon graduated from North High School. He often expressed that his greatest regret was transferring schools during his senior year—but as life would have it, Omaha is where his story truly began to take shape.

In 1957, Mylon began working at John Day Rubber & Supply. During that time, he met Lana, who worked a block away. They first crossed paths at a small local coffee shop, and from that grew a relationship that would span six decades. They were married on August 27, 1961.

They were blessed with two children: Kathy, who joined their family in April of 1968, and Jeff, who followed in September of 1970. Mylon began work at Union Pacific Railroad in April of 1969 and retired in January of 2000. Even in retirement, Mylon found it difficult to sit still. After just one winter, he returned to work driving cars for Omaha Auto Auction, where his friendly demeanor and kindness earned him the affectionate nickname “Smilin’ Mylon.”

Family was always at the heart of Mylon’s life. For many years, Lana provided daycare in their home, caring for 27 children in addition to their grandchildren. Mylon played a special role in those children’s lives—often giving them tractor rides on the lawn, a simple joy that became the highlight of their days. Many of those children remained in touch over the years, a testament to the love and kindness that filled their home.

Mylon lived a life rooted in faith and service. He devoted countless hours to ministering to seniors in assisted living and nursing homes, and he also participated in prison and hospital ministries. He served for 15 years on the Community of Christ Social Service Board and spent two years as a chaplain at Florence Home. His faith was not just something he spoke about—it was something he lived out daily.

In later years, Mylon and Lana enjoyed traveling together, but what he treasured most was time spent with his family—especially his grandsons, Zayn, Aydin, and Bryce. These moments brought him immense joy and fulfillment.

Mylon was known among family and friends as the one who could fix anything with an engine. For years, he was the family mechanic, making sure everyone’s cars stayed running and teaching others how to care for their own. More recently, he discovered a love for woodworking, creating things with his hands and continuing his lifelong habit of staying busy and helpful. He was also a devoted Nebraska Cornhuskers fan, holding season tickets for many years and cheering faithfully for his team.

Above all, Mylon loved his family and his Lord. He often said he had many questions he hoped to ask God one day.

In the early morning hours of May 4, 2026, Mylon passed peacefully in his sleep. We take comfort in believing that he now has those answers and is experiencing a joy beyond what we can imagine.

Mylon was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Gladys Larsen, and his brothers Loren and Ken. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Lana; his daughter, Kathy Plants (Darren) of Omaha; his son, Jeff (Gazala) of Omaha; his seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; his sister, Darlene of Ft. Pierce, Florida; and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Mylon’s memory to Nebraska Children’s Home Society (nchs.org/donate) or St. Croix Hospice (hospicesupportfoundation.org).

A Visitation for Mylon will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The Funeral Service will be Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 11:00 am, with Interment to follow. All services will take place at Westlawn-Hillcrest Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 5701 Center St. Omaha, NE 68106.