Gary Lee Larson

Gary Lee Larson died suddenly at his home in Olympia, Washington on April 16, 2011. Just prior to his demise Gary, Carol and sister Anne had returned from an enjoyable Caribbean cruise and a trip by Gary and Carol to Disney World.

Throughout his life Gary heartily embraced life and gave joy, laughter, loyalty, and love to all who knew him. There was no more avid Green Bay Packer fan than Gary. Always ready with a family or Norwegian story he frequently had his company in tears of laughter.

Especially entertaining were his stories of adventures on the farm with Cousin Wendell Ranney.

After many years of being a bachelor Gary met the love of his life, Carol Morehead. They married on October 16, 1999. Gary became a part of his wife's family and was truly loved by his daughters. Some of his proudest moments were with his daughters: being embraced by Sherry and her family; Melissa calling him "Dad"; and walking Jennifer down the aisle at her wedding.

Gary took great interest in the doings of his nieces and nephews. The involvement of the grandchildren in his life was always precious to him. He enjoyed reading stories, playing with his boys and going to school events. The siblings stayed in touch regularly by phone and during Gary and Carol's yearly visits to Menomonie, Wisconsin.

Gary was born on October 10, 1943 in Menomonie, Wisconsin to Louis and Edith Larson. He was raised there with his sisters Karen, Anne, and his brother Steven. After graduating from Menomonie High in 1961 Gary served in the US Navy. Upon his return home Gary attended UW Stout and received a bachelors and masters degree. He also worked in computer programming, vocational rehabilitation training, real estate and as a Menomonie Police officer. He moved to Washington where he worked for the State in Vocational Rehabilitation until his retirement.

Gary is survived by his wife, Carol; children, Sherry (David) Carlson-DeMoss, Jennifer (Dave) Hill, and Melissa Morehead; grandchildren, Daniel Carlson-DeMoss, Sam and Zack Hill; sisters, Anne Schleusner and Karen (Michael) Williams; brother, Steven (Candace) Larson; nieces and nephews, Nathan (Andrea) Williams, Noah (Melissa) Williams, Eve Williams, Kallie (Gene) Schabert, Luke Schleusner, Anthony Larson, Stephanie Larson, and Stuart Larson.

Preceding Gary in death were his parents, Edith and Louis Larson; and his brother-in-law Thomas Schleusner.

Funeral Services will be held at Mills & Mills Funeral home in Tumwater, WA, on Friday, April 22 at 1:00 PM. Visitation will be Thursday evening from 5-8 PM.

As Gary would have said, "Uff Da!"