Donald Larsen

May 1, 1943 – September 28, 2026

Donald Larsen, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on September 28, 2026. He was born on May 1, 1943, in Queens, New York, to Norwegian immigrants, Dagfinn Elborg Larsen and Astrid Undeli Larsen.

Donald is survived by his wife of 52 years (40 + Colin), Joan; son, Donald E. Larsen and his wife, Sandra; his daughter, Erica D'Urso; his sister, Helen Pujazon and her husband, Flory; his brother-in-law Edward Richards; his grandchildren, Corrinn Caviness and her husband, Chris, Jacalyn Larsen, Emma D’Urso and Colin D'Urso; and his great-grandchildren, Allison Caviness and Evelyn Caviness. He also leaves behind many extended family members and friends.

Family was at the heart of Don’s life. He cherished every opportunity to spend time with the people he loved and took great pride in creating memories that his family will carry with them forever. His home was a place of warmth, laughter, and togetherness, especially during the holidays. He loved hosting gatherings and opening his home to family, friends, and anyone that needed a place to go. To Don, there was always room at the table.

A businessman and natural leader, Don took great pride in his career and in every opportunity to serve others. He was the owner of D&M Express Services, an international courier service. After retiring, he began working part time at John Bleakley RV Center. To no one’s surprise, he went on to become the Vice President of the dealership.

Don’s next chapter brought him to Thrivent Financial as a Lutheran Community Services Specialist, combining his professional talents with his commitment to helping others. Don served on the Board of Directors for Lutheran Services of Georgia (Inspiritus) and most recently as a Board Director for the GreyStone Power Foundation.

Don had many interests throughout his life. Living on Long Island, Don enjoyed boating and fishing. He was a golfer, woodworker, photographer, chef, musician, and avid Mets fan.

While stationed at Schofield Barracks in Honolulu, Hawaii, Don discovered his love for the ukulele - a passion that stayed with him throughout his life. His love of music continued to bring him joy, especially through his time with the West Georgia Ukulele Ensemble.

Don was a devoted member of Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, where he dedicated his time to serving his church and community. He served faithfully on the church council and was often the first to arrive on Sunday mornings, unlocking the doors and starting the coffee. On Tuesday mornings, Don picked up bread for the Daily Bread Ministry, always making sure to bring home the extra bread for the backyard critters he loved to feed. These simple acts of kindness were a reflection of the generous and caring spirit that touched so many lives.

Don volunteered countless hours of his time throughout his life. He was part of the team that supported the Opening and Closing Ceremonies at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, participated in the Million Meal Pack, and walked in the Atlanta Community Food Banks annual Hunger Walk.

A proud Army Veteran, Don was a member of the American Legion, Post 294.

Visitation will be held at Whitley-Garner at Rose Haven Funeral Home on Thursday from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Starting at 7:00 p.m., family and friends are invited to share memories and stories about Don.

A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, October 24th at 2:00 p.m. at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Atlanta Community Food Bank in Donald’s memory.