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Richard Larkin Obituary
A native of Cleveland, Ohio, he was 104 years old and a resident of Williamsburg Landing. He was a 1925 graduate of the United States Naval Academy and was its oldest alumnus. Following post graduate studies at the Academy, he served as Naval Inspector of Ordinance in Brooklyn, N.Y., until 1941. During World War II, he commanded Destroyer Division Sixteen and Destroyer Squadron Ten in escort of convoy operations in support of the invasion of southern France. Reassigned to the Pacific, he commanded Mine Squadron Twenty and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for operations in support of the assault and capture of Okinawa. Assigned to shore duty in 1945, he joined Project Y of the secret Manhattan Project at Los Alamos, N.M., earning the Commendation Ribbon. Returning to sea duty in 1951 during the Korean War, he was awarded the Legion of Merit Medal and the Gold Star. After 30 years of active duty, he retired in 1955 with the rank of Rear Admiral.
Following naval service, Admiral Larkin moved to Hampton where he held a position in computer programming with the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company. He retired in 1969, and spent most of the next twenty years sailing the inland waterway on his 30-ft sailboat, EchappE.
After the death of his first wife, Cora Wallace Sellier, in 1933, he married Frances Lee Kelly of Hampton, Va., in 1938.
He is predeceased by his wife, Frances Lee Kelly Larkin; his oldest son, Richard Alexander Larkin; and his brother, Robert B. Larkin.
Admiral Larkin is survived by a brother, Morgan C. Larkin; a son, Robert Lane Larkin; a daughter, Frances Lee Larkin; six grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.
His family is proud of his leadership and service to the nation at a time of great need. We were blessed by his kindness, devotion and generosity. He is sorely missed.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, at St. John's Episcopal Church in Hampton, Va. Burial will follow at St. John's Cemetery.
Friends are encouraged to visit www.mem.com to share words of comfort with the family.
Arrangements are under the care of Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Avenue, Hampton, Va. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Larkin
Cheryl Hendrickis (McClary)
October 3, 2008
Alex, I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. I am here for you, always know that honey. We are connected in our hearts as brother and sister, even if not by blood. I love you sweetie and wish I could be there for you. Give me a holler when you can. I love you Alex. Love, Cheri ( Cheryl)
Kate Musick
September 10, 2008
Dear Lee,
We are keeping you in our thoughts, but know that you have so many fabulous memories and amazing stories of your dad. He was a true wonder, and his zest for life and the stories you shared of him inspired a great many.
With much love,
Kate, Barry, Zane and Zoe
Beth Klein
September 10, 2008
Ms. Lee Larkin, Kelly, Lewie and all the rest of the family. Craig and I send our our heart felt condolences to all of you. I remember you (Lee) taking Kelly and I to a Chinese restaurant (about 20 years ago!) to have duck with your father Mr. Larkin. I think that was the first time I had duck and have loved it ever since. Mr. Larkin had a life which truly should be celebrated by all and and profound example of a person to follow. Love Beth and Craig Klein.
Rose Y. Lewis
September 10, 2008
Lewie, your grandfather's duties are over here on earth, but he has duties in Heaven with the Father that are more important. Just knowing that your grandfather was here for so many years is a consolation and blessing to you and your family. We pray for your families' strength for we know that your grandfather will be sadly missed.
Karen Luvaas and Peter Kucera
September 10, 2008
Lee,
We are so sorry for the loss of your father. He sounds like a truly inspirational man.
You are in our thoughts.
Mercer Christian
September 10, 2008
Robert, I'm sorry about the loss of your dad.
Judy Nightengale Fuqua
September 10, 2008
We are certainly celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Judy Nightengale Fuqua
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