Darrell E Larsen

Born in Delta, Colorado, in 1922, Darrel E. Larsen, 92 of Ventura California served in the Army Air Corps during WW2 in the 44th Bomber Group, 506 Squadron, stationed near Norwich, England. He flew 35 missions over Europe and on his last required mission he was shot down and captured by the Germans, subsequently ending up as a POW in Paris Stalag 11-A, Stalag Loft 4 and Stalag XI-B. It was during the Black March that he escaped and ended up back in England in April of 1945. Dad rarely spoke of the war but his exceptional dedication and duties to his country allowed him to earn 2 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 5 Air Medals, 2 Purple Hearts and on Feb 20, 2009 he was awarded the French Medal of Honor.

He married his high school sweetheart, Martha Geraldine, in 1946 and had two daughters Valerie and Rhonda as well as a granddaughter, Brandee.

While attending Ventura high school he acquired the nickname "Ollie Olson" while playing football, a name that followed him throughout life. His passion for music found him performing for high school dances and clubs all over California. He also marched in the Rose Bowl Parade with the Ventura College Band known as "Pete's Pirates." When the war ended, he returned to the University of Cal Poly and began raising Chester White Hogs. During the coming years he owned 3 hamburger stands, started Oxnard Oil Refinery, Vogue Sign Company, Murphy's Tavern and the Wagon Wheel Restaurant. He and our mother were both professional ballroom dancers. With all this he still had time for family vacations and his daughter's sports activities.

They say the worth of a man is measured in actions and deeds. If that is so, then our father, Darrel "Ollie" Larsen was a giant of a man. A perfect father and a loving husband.

Have a safe journey Dad and give Mom a hug for us.

Love you

Arrangements under the direction of Charles Carroll Funeral Home, Ventura, CA.