Jimmy LeRoy Larkin

Jimmy LeRoy Larkin was born on January 23, 1940 to James & Ellen Larkin in John Day, Oregon and entered his heavenly home on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 in Lakewood, CO. Jim is survived by the love of his life, Ann, his children Debra, Jeffrey, and Amy, his brothers Larry and Barney, five grandchildren and three great grandchildren. He grew up in John Day, attending a one-room schoolhouse in Canyon City through the eighth grade, attended Grant Union High School before transferring to Prairie City High School in the 11th grade. Jim didn't return for his senior year, but went on to get his GED and take a college course or two. Jim grew up in a large family with five half siblings through his father and 4 full siblings. They were true survivalist, living off the land, hunting for their meat, and enjoying the beauty of Oregon.

Jim did not wait for life to develop on its own, rather he grabbed the reins of life and took his own path. Jim met Ann when they were 16 years old and wasted no time, knowing she was his forever love, and married at 17 on May 25, 1957. As a testimony of their love for one another, they lived each and every day for each other, celebrating 67 years of marriage; together for over 68 years. Together, Jim and Ann loved to dance. As their eyes met from across the dance room floor, everyone else faded into the dust as they danced magically together. Through the years, they loved to square dance and picked up round dancing. Ann will never forget dancing to their favorite song, Can I Have This Dance by Anne Murry.

Jim began his career in John Day working with his brother Bob. Bob and Jim grew very close in their friendship that lasted for the rest of their life. As time went on, Jim knew that his vision for the future was bigger than John Day could provide, so he and Ann set off on the next adventures of life together. Throughout his career, from the age of 14 working as a wildland firefighter, picking strawberries, milking goats, walking the logs at the sawmill, to gas station attendant, salesman, management, and keynote speaker at trade shows, Jim always cared about those around him. Sharing the news of Jim's passing brought out stories of how he influenced and motivated everyone around him, encouraged others to start their own business, and generally made those around him better. Jim knew what it took to be successful and did whatever it took to provide for his family.

Jim's career provided he and Ann the opportunity to travel, spending time in Hawaii, Mexico, and on cruises. They also enjoyed trips to Alaska, the Panama Canal, Louisiana, and time along the Oregon coast. When Jim was home, he was caring for and investing in his kids. He enjoyed refereeing at the kid's soccer games, helping Jeffrey at boy scouts, cheering them on at the swim meets, volunteering for bingo or selling concessions for Blue Knights for Deb, and countless hours at Westernaires with Amy.

Jim also had an amazing mind that allowed him to fix anything; in fact, he would often take things apart just to see how they work. If there was something not working right, he could problem solve the issue and have it back up and going. No matter what it was in life, when he decided to do something, he did it and did not worry about what others thought. For his girls, he didn't let them off the hook with things that didn't work right. He encouraged them to fix whatever the problem was and if someone wanted to help them, just simply tell them, "I can fix it faster than I can teach you how."

In his spare time, Jim loved to hunt, fish, and camp. After retirement, he and Ann would go to church on Sundays (when the Broncos were not playing) and then head out to go camping. Jim loved to play golf so Ann learned to play so they could spend more time together. They continued their love for dancing all of their life. We can only imagine them dancing together when no one was around; holding each other and enjoying each song as they played. As season ticket holders for the Denver Broncos for 20+ years, Jim and Ann enjoyed tailgating with their friends and soaking in those winning seasons, all the way to the Super Bowl.

To the end of his life, Jim continued to be proud of his kids. Debra, Jeffrey, and Amy - Dad or Papa loved you and wanted the best for you.

Ann, from high school sweethearts, learning to live life together, raising children, through all of the ups and downs, job changes, moves across the country, settling down, vacations together, golf, Broncos, and of course dancing, Jim was happiest when he was with you. We know that you grieve the loss of him not being with you each day, but you can look forward to the day when you can dance in the glory of heaven together.

May God bring comfort and peace to all who knew Jim during his life here on earth, but may you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior so that you can celebrate with him when you are reunited with him in Heaven.

Jimmy LeRoy Larkin's service will be a private ceremony for the family. At a later date, a Celebration of Life will be held for friends to attend.