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Robert Larkin Obituary

ROBERT J. LARKIN

"Bob" passed away suddenly, but peacefully, in his garden on Saturday, January 19th, 2013, of a heart attack. We are heartbroken at the sudden loss of a man who lived a life of love and service to his family, community and country. He was 76.

Bob was born in Merna, Illinois on May 1, 1936, one of 10 siblings. He served four years in the US Air Force. His early career took him to 29 countries, creating a life-long love of travel and language.

Bob married Judy Glynn in 1961. They settled in Simi Valley, California with their four children. He opened a State Farm Insurance Agency that he ran for 44 years, achieving many top awards. He earned an Associate of Arts degree from Moorpark College.

Bob became involved in politics, serving as President of the Simi
Valley Chamber, and on the Parks Board. He was instrumental in the creation of the 33-acre Rancho Simi Community Park. He was involved in numerous civic and charitable organizations. Bob became active in the California Republican Party. It was his lifelong passion. He had many treasured relationships among his political friends. He served as President of the California Congress of Republicans, he chaired the Ventura County Republican Central Committee. He ran for State Assembly in 1996 and 2004.

In 2003, after a divorce, Bob found love again "on the back nine", with Donna Graen, a childhood friend found again at a school reunion. They married on June 13th, 2004, and shared 8 1/2 years of joy until he passed.

Bob loved walking and bike rides with Donna and their dog, Gidget near their home in Westlake Village, CA. His most recent service position was on the board of his HOA. His tomato garden was famous. He wrote poems for family and friends. He was a crooner who never passed up a karaoke opportunity! Bob called his family regularly, and he visited them often. To them, he was "Pop Pop". He was sentimental and romantic, intelligent and a great storyteller, as well as a history buff.

Bob was preceded in death by parents, Jerome and Sadie; and siblings, Betty, Dick Larkin and Tom Larkin. He is survived by his wife, Donna Graen Larkin; and children, Kathleen "Kate" Larkin of San Francisco, Mary Larkin Ingber, husband Dr. Craig Ingber and granddaughter Devon Ingber of Valencia, CA, his son Robert "Rob" Larkin, Jr., wife Angie Ravaioli-Larkin and grandchildren Brittney and Braeden Larkin of Keller, TX, and son Toby Larkin of Anthem, AZ. Bob's surviving siblings are: Jerry Larkin, Michael Larkin, Larry Larkin, Joan Reeves, Mary Shadowens, and Alice Larkin. His Bonus Children and Grandchildren: Tamra Presley Weiss, husband Jack and grandchildren Samuel Weiss and Alison Weiss of Chicago, IL, and Christopher Presley of Chattanooga, TN, from Donna's previous marriage.

There is a public viewing on Saturday, January 26, 2013, 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., followed by a celebration of his life at the Westlake Village Inn at 6:00 p.m. The funeral for family and close friends is Sunday, January 27, 2013, 11:00 a.m. For details please visit: www.piercebrothersvalleyoaks.com or call Pierce Brothers Mortuary in Westlake: 818-889-0902.

Published by Los Angeles Daily News on Jan. 25, 2013.
34465541-95D0-45B0-BEEB-B9E0361A315A

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The holiday's are upon us and we miss you dearly! We hear a heavenly voice from above; it must be yours! Keep singing!xoxoxo

Brenda Cohen

December 1, 2014

Thanksgiving 2014 My second since you left. Missing you lots. With all my Love
Donna

November 30, 2014

I am truly saddened to hear of Bob's passing. He was a warm and caring man who always made me feel comfortable when I would drop in to his office. Although I did not know Bob well, I will remember him as an example of a true gentleman and a gentle soul. My condolences to you Donna and to all Bob's family and friends.

Diane Hedding

March 21, 2013

Bob was a gentleman and for over 30 years, a friend. I have fond memories of his sense of humor and quick grin. It was truly a pleasure to know him.

Fred Lundgren

March 13, 2013

I have nothing but the warmest memories of my friend Bob Larkin. Always friendly, always positive, always giving -- he was a genuinely classy and authentically good person. I'll never forget the days he would take me golfing in Westlake, always giving me golf tips and helping me work on my game. I'm very grateful that our paths crossed and that I was blessed with his friendship.

Mark McDonald

March 5, 2013

I wanted to say to the whole Larkin family,"I'm sorry to hear of your loss. Just wanted to say Thank You Bob for all the good conversations about golf n life in general. You're the only man I knew that had a picture taken w/the last several presidents. :) I enjoyed popping in on u once in awhile for the last 12 yrs. Your husband, father, friend was one of favorite customers. He will definately be missed by all. Take care of yourselves, and I know Bob's on the 1st tee watching over u all still. With all my condolences, Hit em straight Bob,
Ur favorite and only UPS man,

Tim Riley

February 23, 2013

Bob's passing has left a hole in our world.... He'll be so missed here and looked forward to meeting in heaven!!!
Love,
Deb

Deb Morris

February 19, 2013

My sincere condolences to Mrs. Larkin, and his family.

Bob was a true gentleman, polite, courteous, always professional, and possessed a great sense of humor.

It was a pleasure to know him!

David Elliott
U.S. Postal Service (Ret)
Simi Valley, California

February 15, 2013

I was shocked and saddened to receive a letter in the mail from State Farm informing me of Bob's passing. Bob was my agent for nearly 20 years. Two years ago, he gave my first born daughter his "beginner's driving" speech to save me $100 on my policy. Bob was always so kind to me. He will be missed.

Sheri S

February 8, 2013

Dear Bob, Thank You for making Donna Happy, and all you met along the way.
You two were a GREAT couple. Always welcoming and ALWAYS making with the "Irish Hospitality". Donna WILL miss you, and indeed so many people will, but you have left some Good Memories and we all know, you were never "Wheel Chair Material". "Fast Out" is a gift, see you at the next Great Party.
Love and Every Good Wish,
Patricia

Patricia K.-D.

February 6, 2013

To Bob's Family & Friends -
We were saddened to learn today of Bob's passing. He has been our agent for approximately 30 years, and even when we moved from the Simi area, we kept him as our agent. We offer our condolences and celebrate a life well-lived, right up until the end.
- Ron & Donna Bailey

February 5, 2013

I was out of town and missed the announcement of Bob's passing. I am so sorry to hear of the death of one of Simi's truly great citizens. Bob was a friend first and a State Farm agent second. He was our family agent for over 30 years and we always felt we were his most important client, and I am sure he made everyone feel. I will miss him so much. My prayers to the family. Angela Constable

Angela Constable

February 4, 2013

Bob was the best agent I ever had. He was so good to me and my family for over 30 years..You will be missed my friend. It is good to know he with with the Lord. All my prayers to Bob and his family. God Bless you all.

David Laury Sr. & Family

David Laury

February 4, 2013

Our condolences to the family of Bob Larkin. We had the pleasure of enjoying Bob as our insurance agent for over 38 years and just spoke to him the week before his passing. We were sharing camping stories and laughing which was the norm when talking with Bob. He was so much more than our agent and will be missed not only by our family, but the community of Simi Valley.
Rick & Teri Brotherton

February 3, 2013

Our condolences to the family of Bob. Larkin. We had the pleasure of knowing Bob and enjoying him as our insurance agent for almost 39 years. We spoke just the week before he passed and were sharing camping stories. He was so much more than our agent and will be missed by not only our family but the entire community of Simi Valley.

February 3, 2013

Bob was a good friend of mine. We followed each others lives, it's ups and its down. I was happy when he met Donna, she made him very happy. He was such a romantic and a lover of life. I will miss him.

J Pena

February 1, 2013

Bob had been our insurance agent for many years. We moved to Simi Valley in 1971, and he handled all of our insurance affairs for our home and cars for that time. He will been sorely missed by the community and his many friends and clients. He was always such a nice man who was always so personable and had such a good sense of humor. Our deepest sympathies to his wife and family.

SHARON & CHARLES MARQUEZ

February 1, 2013

Bob was a wonderful friend to us all. He was talented, charming and clever. As an enthusiastic promoter of women in politics, he reminded us that we could "make a difference." He shared information and opportunities which is rare. Bob was a gem. His local republican party was fashioned in his image; generous, open, inclusive and exciting. We will miss him but remember his heart and his great ideas. Beverly Benton

February 1, 2013

Our sincere condolences to Bob's family.
Kaaren and Dennis Kneff

January 31, 2013

How saddened I was to learn of Bob's passing . . . as an insurance agent he was delightful to work with . . . and on occasion he would end our conversation with him reading one of his poems . . . I ALWAYS had a smile on my face when I spoke with Bob . . .

Celia Vigil

January 31, 2013

Donna:
May your heart be filled with lovely memories.

Nancy Cusey

January 31, 2013

Dear Donna,

Nancy and I are so very sorry for your loss. I hope we can see you in the weeks to come. Ted & Nancy Bayouth

Ted Bayouth

January 30, 2013

Donna, I am looking forward to seeing you soon and remembering the wonderful life that is Bob. I know you miss him very much. Luv.

Pam Corradi

January 29, 2013

Kate and Piglet:
My condolences on Bob's passing. Kate, please give me a call or email, I'd like to catch up with you.
[email protected]

Michael Ireland

January 28, 2013

damien saint jacskon
says thanks for my atlas. Many road trips are a waiting...
Cheers!

January 28, 2013

My Dear Donna,
Oh, the memories...the CCR and CRP meetings, private pow-wows, and conventions...some good, some not so! Nobody tried harder than Bob and Howard to fix the 'elephant in the room'. Sadly, with the scary talkers, it's as bad as ever.
There are only fabulous memories of our annual weekends at Firestone's ranch with our 'special friends'. The most unique was your wedding weekend.. what a beautiful couple! As I recall, Bob sang a song for the ceremony which he had written for you and the wedding. He had a wide range of talents.
I'm sorry you didn't make the Monterey 2011 gathering..I was looking forward to seeing you two.
What a beautiful obituary and tribute to a life well lived.
My love and sympathy to you, Donna.

Judy Symcox

January 27, 2013

Whatsoever soothes you spirit, comforts your soul and brings you peace that is what is wished for you at this difficult time.
Kathleen, Mary, Rob and Toby, our sincere and heartfelt condolences for the loss of your dad. We go back a long time.
Most sincerely to all the Larkin family.

Al, Sharon, Scott & Eric Church

January 27, 2013

Please accept our sincere condolences. We thought of Bob as a very professional and caring agent for our family.

Terry Adkins

January 26, 2013

Donna, Kate, Mary, Rob, and Toby. Sometimes there are no words to say how we feel. Just know that our thoughts and prayers are with you today and the coming days. Bob, older brother, you will be missed. I am for ever grateful for your lesson in how to tuck in a shirt!
Jerry & Diane Larkin (Elkhart, IN)

January 26, 2013

Howard and Kitty Rogo, Palm Desert He's joined with many Simi Valley Rotarians

Howard Rogo

January 26, 2013

With All My Love to you. Hugs and kisses.
Donna

Donna Graen Larkin

January 26, 2013

To Donna and the rest of Bob's family.
I know that you will miss him so very much.
I will too and remember the hours we shared on a golf course and
when he was my practice baseball catcher. We shared many happy
hours.
Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss.

Larry Larkin Georgetown, TX

January 26, 2013

Our loss of Bob on earth will be an addition to God's choir. Our sympathy to all who had the privilege of knowing Bob. Donna, so glad we had the opportunity to meet you last year during our night out at Jim's Steak House with some of the Larkin family in Bloomington. Bob told me that night that he always loved and admired my dad, his uncle. There wasn't anyone who didn't return that love and admiration to Bob. A prince among men to his family, his country, his friends, his job, and his "roots." RIP cousin.

Gloria & Bill Heller

January 26, 2013

Words do an injustice in explaining how much you will miss Bob. Please know that you are in my thoughts.

Wendy Wilcox-Elwell

January 25, 2013

Our hearts go out to Bob's family. We have been fortunate to have known Bob for over 30 years. He has been our State Farm Agent all of that time. Bob always had that contagious smile on his face. We remember the days when Bob would come to our home, sit at our kitchen table, and share a cup of coffee while he explained our insurance policies. We always trusted Bob completely with our insurance business. We will surely miss this wonderful and kind man. He was truly an asset to our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.

Jeff & Kari Stokes

January 25, 2013

Rest in peace.
Ed & Alice Brassil & Family

Ed & Alice Brassil

January 25, 2013

Dear Friend
I am blessed that we found each other again after many years apart and knowing you found such great love with Bob is truly a blessing from God. Even though I only met Bob on January 11th we had such a connection and it felt like I had known him forever. He shared so many things with me such as his Republican video, things about his children and grandchildren, how you both met, your wedding, and how much he loved and cherished you. Your love and relationship was one to Admire. Lastly, I can't forget the stories about Gidget and all of the tricks that Bob taught her. My heart and prayers are with you Donna through this most difficult time. May The Lord make His face shine upon you and give you peace.
Much Love,
Brenda Cohen

Brenda & Norman Cohen

January 24, 2013

Donna,
I was so sad for you when Nancy told me of your beloved Bob's passing. I know how very happy you have been with him. I can only pray for you and send love, and hope that you have family and friends that will make things easier for you at this time. I hope having mom there helps you through this. I will be thinking of you and praying for you and your family. Love to you......Keri Wenger

January 24, 2013

My best Karaoke Buddy. Looking forward to our next duet. I know it will be heavenly.

May God Bless you

Polly

Polly Malven

January 24, 2013

TO THE FAMILY OF A SIMI VALLEY CITIZEN WITH A SPOTLESS REPUTATION! HE DID HIS PART TO MAKE VENTURA COUNTY A BETTER PLACE TO LIVE.
GARY AND GLORIA WALKRT

GLORIA WALKER

January 24, 2013

Michael and I are terribly distressed and saddened to learn of the death of Bob. Donna we know how much you loved Bob and your beautiful life together. We remember with fondness your wedding dance at the Firestone Winery. Please accept our most sincere condolences for your loss.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Carole and Michael R. A. Wade
Newport Beach, California

January 24, 2013

Bob was a good Rotarian and friend.

Tonie Valdez

January 24, 2013

My condolences to Donna and the rest of Bob's family. It was nice seeing you two together in your home and I know he will be missed by many in his family and in the community. -Kris Paden

Kris Paden

January 24, 2013

Donna I only met Bob one time when we were together in Chicago, what a neat time we had. Wished we could have played a round of golf. Thinking of you.

Betty Presley

January 24, 2013

Bob was a true friend and an extraordinary community Leader –he will be missed by all!

Mary Kramer Ph.D.

January 24, 2013

Donna, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Kristi Huse

January 24, 2013

Bicky & George Meier,
Donna how we loved Bob and wish we could be with you now. Love you
Bick & George

Bick & George Meier

January 23, 2013

When Bob and Donna were married, we were pleased to welcome him into our family. We enjoyed getting to know Bob while attending Donna's grandson, Sam Weiss', Bar Mitzvah. What a nice man! May God strengthen Bob's family with wonderful memories and with the prayers of those whose lives he touched.
In sympathy and love,
Steve and Diana Wheeler(Normal, IL)

Steve and Diana Wheeler

January 23, 2013

We will miss you Uncle Bob. I will miss your poems at our family reunions. Prayers of comfort to Donna, Kate, Mary, Rob, Toby and your families. May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. "May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rain fall softly on your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of his hand."

Sandy Larkin-Boyd

January 23, 2013

Remembering Bob, Mike and their siblings from our school days together at Downs, IL and many reunions since. The family can tell great stories about their childhood, always hilarious. They are a large and joyous group, loved by all. May your love for each other carry you through this time of loss and recall all the good times with a smile. Nancy Miller, Bloomington, IL

Nancy Miller

January 23, 2013

Bob was always a cheerful voice on the phone when I would call the office. He was a concerned and helpful man. I am very sorry for the loss of this man of integrity and humanitarianism.

Wendy P.

January 23, 2013

When the Lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift of memories in exchange. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Linda Romine Bourret

January 23, 2013

We have lost a great friend and patriot. I will cherish my memories of Bob - we met at a Republican convention in the 1980's! I served as his 'secretary' when he ran for the Assembly - what great times we had! Donna, my prayers and thoughts are with you and the rest of Bob's wonderful family. May you all be blessed with the time and memories you shared with a most wonderful man!!!! Pam Corradi, Burbank

January 23, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Ron Romine

January 23, 2013

IT SEEMS LIKE ONLY YESTERDAY I FLEW TO LAX, RENTED A CAR AND DROVE TO SANTA BARBARA AND THE FIRESTONE WINERY FOR A WEDDING: BOB LARKIN AND DONNA GRAEN, BOTH FROM DOWNS, IL, THE THEME WAS WESTERN DRESS. BOB WAS HAPPIER THAN I HAD SEEN HIM IN A LONG TIME. DONNA WAS GOOD FOR HIM! HIS FINAL NINE YEARS WERE HAPPY BUT FAR TOO SHORT. BROTHER MIKE

MIKE LARKIN

January 23, 2013

May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.

American Heart Association

January 23, 2013

It is Monday morning and I am greeted by Bob at the office with a big smile & a Good Morning. And again on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. He was there for only shy of my two years & I miss him. Rest in peace my Sunshine.

SHEILA SPENCE

January 22, 2013

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