Fred Phillip Larsen Jr.

LARSEN -Fred Phillip Larsen, Jr. Born in Oak Park Illinois, February 23, 1922, died in his sleep March 24, 2003, after a brief stay at Whittier Medical Center. Fred and his beloved wife Marylou resided in La Mirada. He retired from the United States Navy in 1962 after distinguished service in W.W.II, the Korean War and the initial stages of the Vietnam War. Serving aboard the USS Jacob Jones, DE 130 he participated in the massive antisubmarine warfare campaign in advance of the allied invasion of Normandy and later served in the USS Tortuga, LSD 26. Internationally recognized for his achievements in the pursuit of land spe ed records. He is the holder of multiple World Land Speed records for streamlined vehicles set at the Bonneville Salt Flats. A Life Time Member of the 200 Mile Per Hour Club, 300 MPH Chapter, Fred was honored in 1997 with the National Hot Rod Association Life Time Achievement Award. Fred's professional and personal life were dedicated to the pursuit of speed and he was joined in that by his lovely wife of fifty years, Marylou. At an age when most men have resigned themselves to racing their recliners, Fred was driving this beautiful Larsen-Cummins Streamliner to record speeds of 300 mph and more. And never once beginning a record attemp without a kiss and hug from Marylou. His career presented many interesting opportunities for the development and fabrication of high performance vehicles. Working with Mickey Thompson, he assisted in the construction of the first Indianapolis 500 racing cars to make extensive use of titanium. In 1962, Fred designed components for and assembled the first Shelby Cobra sports car . Fred is survived by his wife Marylou, brother Vern, nephews Glenn and Wayne, their wives Candy and Diane and grandnieces Heather and Lisanne, grandnephews Trevor and Nicholas, great grandnieces Kylie and Jolie. Respecting his wishes, no service is planned at present. Donations in lieu of flowers should be sent to Save the Salt, 39937 90th Street West, Leona Valley, CA. 93551.