Edwin Eric Larson

Edwin "Ed" Larson, born on January 5, 1931, in Los Angeles, California to parents Eric and Margaret, lived a long and productive life dedicated to his passions and principles. He passed away peacefully on March 1, 2024. Throughout his journey, Ed's unwavering commitment to academia, adventure, and advocacy touched the lives of countless individuals, leaving an enduring legacy that will be cherished for generations to come.

From a young age, Ed displayed exceptional intellect and athleticism, distinguishing himself both academically and athletically. He excelled in school and sports including track and gymnastics, even qualifying as an alternate for the US Olympic Gymnastics team.

Following his service during the Korean War with the US Army, Ed pursued his passion for geology, earning his BA and MA in Geology from UCLA in 1954 and 1958, respectively. He continued his academic journey, attaining his Ph.D. in Geology from the University of Colorado at Boulder in 1965, in addition to several post-doctoral fellowships, including one at MIT and another in Japan.

Ed dedicated nearly 30 years to the University of Colorado at Boulder, serving in various roles, including Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and Full Professor. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he attained the prestigious position of "Professor Emeritus" upon his retirement in 1996.

Throughout his career, Ed's influence extended beyond his own classroom. He co-authored a textbook that served as a cornerstone in geological education for nearly 20 years, volunteered to help local teachers with field trips and curriculum improvements. His impact on countless future generations of geologists is immeasurable.

A true adventurer at heart, Ed loved nothing more than exploring the great outdoors. He was an accomplished mountaineer, backpacker, and river navigator, having braved the rapids of numerous rivers, including the mighty Colorado in the Grand Canyon.

Though Ed never married or had children of his own, he cherished his relationships with his two brothers, Tom Larson and Vern Larson, as well as his many nieces and nephews, all of whom adored him. Additionally, Ed enjoyed a circle of close friends, many of whom were previous colleagues or students. Eric Miller, a former graduate student, became like a brother to Ed. Eric and his family visited with Ed frequently and were immensely helpful throughout his life, but particularly in his last few years.

Ed was a passionate advocate for numerous causes, including animal rights, social justice, and environmental protection. He generously supported charities dedicated to causes such as blindness prevention in developing countries and the preservation of the Galapagos Islands.

Ed's big heart, boundless energy, and unwavering commitment to his principles left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He was gregarious, fun-loving, and always the life of the party. His wealth of knowledge and ability to engage in conversation on nearly any subject made him a beloved figure in any social setting.

To be with Ed was to laugh and learn. Family and friends fondly remember that any experience with Ed was an opportunity to learn, especially about the natural world. His passion for science was contagious, and he had a unique gift for sparking the love of science in many people. Whether he was sharing fascinating geological facts during a hike, identifying a bird or flower, pointing out constellations on a clear night, or simply discussing the intricacies of nature over a campfire, Ed's enthusiasm was infectious. He had a knack for making complex concepts accessible and engaging, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of learning from him.

Above all, Ed taught those around him the importance of living life to the fullest, chasing big dreams, and standing up for what you believe. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering determination that will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.