KYLE LARSEN

Kyle Alan Larsen
(01/02/50 - 08/21/12)
Kyle Larsen was born in San Francisco to Alane and Kai Larsen and lived in the Bay Area for his entire life. He passed away peacefully on August 21, 2012, after a battle with prostate cancer.
An internationally renowned bridge player and Grand Life Master, Kyle was inducted into the American Contract Bridge League's Hall of Fame in July 2012. Kyle's bridge career spanned six decades, during which he won two world championships and 12 NABC titles. At age 15, he became the youngest Life Master of Bridge, breaking the previous record by a full 3 years. In 1968, at age 18, he captured the prestigious Reisinger Board-A-Match Teams and was the youngest player ever to win a major North American Championship. His most recent win was the BAZE Senior Knockout Teams at the North American Bridge Championships in 2011. Between these two major victories, he won the Bermuda Bowl in 2001 and the Rosenblum in 2006, both with his favorite partner, Rose Meltzer. Despite his accomplishments, Kyle was an unassuming gentleman, well-regarded by his peers. He is described by a frequent teammate as a terrific sportsman, one of the rare bridge players who always said the right thing and was always professional and courteous at the table.
A professional games player, Kyle excelled at backgammon and lowball for many years, and later, at hold 'em. He loved sports and was an avid fan of the Giants, 49ers and Golden State Warriors.
Kyle was universally liked and respected for his integrity, kindness, positivity and generosity. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
Survivors include Kyle's wife, Gillian Baze; son, Bret Larsen and granddaughter, Tawny Larsen; stepdaughter, Alexandra (Gillian's daughter); stepdaughters, Lori and Jennifer and their mother, Sharon; mother, Alane; father, Kai and Kai's partner Phyllis; sister, Kalane; nieces, Theresa and Kerry and grandnieces; and devoted friends, near and far.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718.