1950 ~ 2015
On January 13, 2015, Steven Merriam Larsen was called up to the "Big Leagues." The hosts of heaven have just taken back one of their best. He passed away unexpectedly from heart failure in his home in American Fork, Utah.
Steve was born on April 10, 1950 to Gene and Jean Larsen in Salt Lake City, Utah. He played baseball for and graduated from Granger High School. He, then, served as a missionary in Argentina for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Steve married his best friend, Sherrie Lynn Van Ry, on December 2, 1971 in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. Although she will now continue their dance alone, their love is forever sealed in heaven through the Priesthood of God.
Like all of us, Steve only had one crack at this life and he truly hit a home run. The ironic thing is that he would be the last person in the world to tell you about his accolades. That is just who he was. Whatever he set his mind to, he did well.
Steve found great joy in the outdoors, whether he was hunting, fishing, gardening, or just setting up a camping trip all could enjoy. His footprints dot nearly every surrounding canyon, lake, peak and ravine. The one thing Steve loved more than nature, however, was his family. He had a huge heart and it seemed to swell with each new grandkid. No roller coaster ever got too big, no recital or ballgame was ever too trivial, and no joke was ever too silly. He was the quintessential everything.
Steve was also a very talented artist and had an impeccable eye for color. He was pursuing his dream of being a painter up until his death and now has the endless skies as his canvas.
In death, Dad is now reunited with his precious daughter, Julie, and his dear parents. He is survived by his beautiful companion (Sherrie Lynn), his in-laws (Cornelius and Joan Van Ry), his sons and daughters (Lana and Richard Mousley, Steven and Noell Larsen, Jamie and Luke Sieverts, and Nikki and Gentry Bean), his grandkids (Alexis, Cody, Hunter, Gage, and Makenna Mousley, Bridger and Whitley Larsen, Bailey, Adrianna, and Elise Sieverts, and Rylee Bean), his siblings (Charlene and Ron Bigelow, Mike and Robyn Larsen, Jim and Roger Larsen, and Richard Larsen), and many uncles, aunts, cousins, nephews, and nieces dear to his heart. His granddaughter, Alexis, is currently a missionary in England.
Funeral services will be 11:00 am, Saturday, January 17, 2015 at the Barratt Building American Fork 30th Ward, 261 North 900 East, American Fork, Utah with a viewing at the church prior to services from 9:45 to 10:45 am. A viewing Friday evening, January 16, 2015 will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the Taylorsville Stake Center, 4845 South Woodhaven Drive (1365 West), Taylorsville, Utah. Interment at 1:30 pm, Saturday, January 17, 2015 at the Valley View Memorial Park, West Valley City, Utah. Online condolences at www.premierfuneral.com
Smell ya' later, Dad! Love, your knuckleheads.

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Published by Deseret News on Jan. 15, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Steven Larsen

Sponsored by Premier Funeral Services - Salt Lake City.

43 Entries

Peggy shaw

October 14, 2015

Dear Sherrie.... I don't know if Richard knew that Steve passed away , I know I didn't until recently ..... I'm so sorry for your lose ... I know how hard it is ... Richard passed away on April 2nd ... They were both way too young ....

Fara Asay

January 23, 2015

This is such a huge shock he was always riding his bike to work and was in such good physical shape when I worked with him at O.C. Tanner. In fact he gave me my start there in the new "Brochure Department" I came from the illustration department and he taught me EVERYTHING about graphic design and it has been my career ever since. I literally owe my career to him. Thank you Steve!! Prayers to you and your family.

Dave Morrison

January 20, 2015

So sad to hear of Steve's passing. I worked with Steve at Rastar and remember being excited when I was told that a project I was managing had been assigned to Steve. One, that meant that I would be getting good work, but most of all, It meant that I would have an excuse to visit with Steve. Even in difficult situations he never failed to make me laugh. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

Piper Rowley

January 19, 2015

So sorry to hear about Steve. He was an amazing man! He will be missed. Love to your family.

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Janice Takagi

January 19, 2015

Oh my gosh, my heart is broken. I was shocked and deeply saddened to see Steve's obituary in the paper. Steve hired me on as a designer at OC Tanner. It was an absolute joy to work with him. He was always so kind and treated me with such respect. He nicknamed me JaNice and it stuck...to the point where many thought that was my real name. Steve has always, and will continue to have a special place in my heart. My condolences to his family. May you find peace and comfort at this difficult time. Most sincerely,

January 19, 2015

Wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed the funeral service. All of you did an excellent job!! So grateful for friends like you even though the years have passed I love you all. I pray that you'll have the piece and love of Steve in your lives forever and always. That the grandkids that are living and yet to come will know him. The grandkids yet to come are blessed to be in his presence as we speak. He will prep them to come to this wonderful family of yours and you'll know he was the last one to kiss them - I promise. It's nice to have someone on the other side even though it's hard. This life goes so fast - I pray that you'll all be able to work through the years ahead. Love you all - Stephanie Olsen Woods

Jeff Midgley

January 19, 2015

Steve, thanks for being my friend. Thanks for a thousand laughs and almost as many hamburgers. Thanks for taking time to capture the beautiful world around us. And thanks for painting me into your life.

January 18, 2015

Larsen family, what a wonderful service for Steve, how proud I know he must be of you for the manner in which you conducted yourselfs while speaking about your husband and father. I testify the spirit of the Lord and indeed Steve was present. Thank you. I am so thankful for Steve's example to me and for his willingness to help Kim and I raise our sons Tayler and Morgan who also love Steve. Thank you for sharing Steve with us. May God bless you, give comfort to you during this time of loss. Steven you have stewardship for your mom, ( Sherri), now as a pristhood holder.. I know she is so strong and spritirtual , but Steve do not hesitate to call upon the power of heaven, for a little extra help in behalf of your dear mother. We are so thankful to have the Larsen family as friends and I know and testifying humbly the day will come when all of us will reunite and talk and laugh of life experiences, and just meet again. You guys rock and still have much to do and you know Steve would have you push ahead and meet all your potential while being of service to others. We love you! Mark and Kim Scharman.

Colleen Poole

January 18, 2015

You Larsen's hit a home run with your remarks at the funeral yesterday. I love the vibe of unity and family support that you demonstrated. Young Steven's remarks got me thinking and I was awake several times last night trying to see if I could describe the Steve I know in one sentence. Here's what I came up with: Steve is testimony-rich, priority-driven, energetic, and fun-loving, and his choices reflect that he knows what matters most. It would be enlightening to see what his new mission call has him doing. Everyone who knew Steve has been altered by his friendship/love!

January 18, 2015

Dear Sherrie and family I am so sad to hear about Steven's death. My prayers are with you and hope that you will find comfort and peace in knowing that families can be together forever. Carolyn Forman

January 17, 2015

Oh, what fond memories I have of Steven, Richard and Uncle Gene coming down for hunting season at the farm. And little Julie - what an honor it was to be part of her so special, but short life. My mother, Helene, absolutely loved and adored Steven and his family, as do the rest of us - Kenneth, Larry, Karmal and Kandy.

We are sending you all our love.

P.S. Lana - this must have come down from grandpa Edger, we heard it a little different - it was Tomal-Tot, Slik-a-pot, Lul-a-mush, Grula-brush and little pea tickle toe. Thanks so much for sharing that today. Love you all so much!

Carla and Bryan Wright

January 17, 2015

What a lovely tribute to a great man today. Sherrie and family, know that we are thinking of you and praying that you will find peace and comfort in the coming months. We all have fond memories of Steve. Our kids all remember the fun times and what a trickster he was, always smiling and telling a joke. Until we meet again...

January 17, 2015

Lynn and family, words can't express my sorrow at Steve's passing. He was so nice and friendly whenever I saw him.It will be so hard to go on without him but know he's close and will be watching over all of you.So sorry for your loss. Darla Williams Burley, Idaho

Doug Williams

January 17, 2015

Sherry and Family, I am so appreciative of you Steve and your family for the love and service you gave to our family, especially to our kids during their developing years in the Taylorsville Ward. We extent our love and sympathy to you at this difficult time.

Roger True

January 16, 2015

So sorry for your loss. I'll never forget Steve's quick smile & generous heart, equaled only by his incredible artistic eye. My heart goes out to you all.

January 16, 2015

We didn't know Steve, but we know his son Steve and his family. What an amazing legacy he has left behind on this earth. Steven and Noelle are some of the greatest people we have ever known and Im sure they learned a lot of that from Steve. Our hearts and prayers are with you.
The Howells

January 16, 2015

I was saddened to read of Steves' passing! I worked with Steve at the Church Office Bldg. in the publications dept. on the 23rd floor. We had a great, fun experience there for a year. We went our separate ways, but always stayed in touch! He was always a pleasure, fun to be around. Mr. hijinks. I will miss him and think of him often.May the Lord comfort his dear family. He was the best.
Randy Stroman

Cassi Smith

January 16, 2015

I'm so sorry for your loss! I didn't know Steve personally, but he was my daughters bus driver last year. It was her first year in school...kindergarten, and she's my oldest. I was an anxious mom sending my daughter off to school for the first time. I think Steve could sense that and put my anxious mind at ease. My daughter loved him and always felt safe with him and for that I was grateful! I know a lot of children were in tears when they heard the news of his passing. He will be missed by many!

January 16, 2015

Sorry for your loss ! Steve was a great friend,I will miss our golf outings,Steve was in his prime one of the best athletes I ever saw !! I am blessed to have his daughter Jamie in our ward in Riverton ! Sherrie our prayers are with you and your family! Love Kim and Rhonda Rindlisbach

Chris Despain

January 15, 2015

Dear Sherrie and family,
I was heartbroken to hear the news. Steve had such a great sense of humor, was accepting of everyone, and ready to help anybody at the drop of a hat. He set the example and we are so grateful to have had him in our life. We love you!

GO TIGERS!

Ken Passarella

January 15, 2015

Steve was the type of guy who could put you in a good mood fast. His quick wit and charisma were unparalleled. I will miss breaking down the Detroit Tigers' chances of winning another World Series with you but I know you'll be cheering from the best seat in the house. Thanks for all the great memories at O.C. Tanner and in deer camp. Rest in peace, dear friend.

Bette Denison

January 15, 2015

Lynn, Joan, Corny and children. I was so saddened to hear of Steve's passing. Please know my love and prayers are with you all. Wish I were home to see you. Remember Steve well as. Teenager in the 5th ward .

Brittany Armstrong

January 15, 2015

He was a great bus driver, my younger child loved that he waved to her as he drove by after picking up her sister and I saw many kids give him a hug when exiting the bus in the afternoon. My daughter always had fun stories and good things to say about him, she wants me to add that he was nice, he was funny and she liked when he played music on the bus.

Drake Kirkham

January 15, 2015

Such a beautifully written memorial. Steve "has the endless skies as his canvas" - yes, he does. And I can only imagine what beauty he will paint with those brushes. Our love to you all.

Kandy Larson

January 15, 2015

Many memories of you! You are missed dearly already! R.I.P. I love you!
Kandy Larson

January 15, 2015

So sorry to hear of Steve's passing. He was the best ! His kids couldn't have asked for a better Father. I always walked away feeling better after visiting with him. May the Lord bless all his family, David Bean

Larry Farris

January 15, 2015

Wow what a loss. I was a close friend to Steve here at O.C. Tanner. Truly a great man which will be missed by many.
Larry Farris

David Despain

January 15, 2015

Dear Sherrie and family. I want to let you know how very much I love you and feel for you at this time. I was so blessed to have the great experience of having Steve as a counselor not one but twice in my life. I relied on him so very much and appreciated his friendship even more. What a great example and friend he is. I pray the Lords blessings and comfort be upon you. Please call if I can help in any way.

Ron Caso

January 15, 2015

I was shocked and deeply saddened after receiving this news. I worked with Steve at Rastar and he quickly became a friend. He was soft spoken with a quick wit but never vicious. Steve was generous, talented and passionate about his painting. He never seemed to have a bad day and taught me through his example to lighten up and be grateful. My sincere condolences to Steve's family. My prayers are with you.

Rick Sutter

January 15, 2015

Don't be dismayed at goodbyes. A farewell is necessary before we can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or a lifetime, is certain for those who are friends. Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel about Steve's passing. . . We have fond memories of Steve, also as a creative brother. . .

Our thoughts are with you and your family,
Rick Sutter & Family

Doug and Shirley Hendricks

January 15, 2015

Dear Lynn, Children, Corny and Joan,
We are so so sorry to learn of Steve's passing. Please know your family is in our prayers that you will find peace and solace at this sad time.

Butch Alder

January 15, 2015

We are so sadden to hear of Steve's passing. He had a significant on our family, one that he probably didn't even realize. He was such a wonderful friend who would be the first to help when help was needed. A great example of a true friend. He is loved and will be missed. Our condolences for his remarkabel family who we were lucky enough to watch grow up. Our days in Taylorsville with the Larsen family are indeed memorable. Thanks Steve for everything! You will be missed.

Brandon Winn

January 15, 2015

Steve taught me my first limerick when he was my scout master and made me truly love the outdoors. I'll never forget scout camps at Schofield with Francis the sheep herder and our "Mosey to Posey." Love you, Steve.

Harold and Leslie Winkler

January 15, 2015

Steve, was a great man and a great example. He will be missed. Prayers for Sherrie and family, my the Lords hold you all in his loving arms at this time of hardship.

Randy Schoeck

January 14, 2015

Rest in peace my dear friend, Kahuna! I will always carry the best of memories. Our bike races, and bike crashes. Great hunts. Creating fun and chaos for co-workers. And many, many laughs. Will always remember our friendship.
My sincere thoughts to Sherrie and family!

Jeff Anderson

January 14, 2015

Steve was more than a great neighbor, he was a true friend that I have never forgotten and never will.

Ron Caso

January 14, 2015

I had the pleasure of working with Steve at Rastar and he quickly became a friend. I don't remember him ever seeming to have a bad day or an unkind word for anyone. He was funny, talented, generous and kind--an all around great guy. I was shocked to hear of his passing. My sincere condolences to his family. My prayers are with you. The world has less laughter now without Steve.

Alan Taylor

January 14, 2015

This news breaks my heart. Steve was one of the funniest people I ever met and I was lucky enough to spend a few short years knowing him. His love and knowledge of art was amazing and we spent many hours daydreaming of the places we would visit and things we would paint. He inspired me in so many ways I will always remember his kindness, pranks and contagious laugh.

Debbie fetzer

January 14, 2015

I am so sadded and shocked to hear of Steven passing. I met Steve when he worked at O.C.Tanner he had a great eye for color and was one of my best clients to work with. I also had the great pleasure to work with Steve at Studeo. He will be missed and to young to leave this earth, I am sure he is painting all the wonderful beauty in heaven and having a great time doing. Much love to his family in this sad time of loss.

Haille Holmes

January 14, 2015

Mr. Larsen was the Best bus driver that I ever had! He was always nice and funny. He was never mean. He always gave us candy for no reason.I never felt afraid or shy around him. I am going to miss him.

Gay Williams

January 14, 2015

Sherrie & family,
I was shocked & saddened to hear of Steve's passing. Truly the best are called home far too soon.
You are all in my thoughts & prayers.

Dale Lott

January 14, 2015

Some folks make you happy simply because you know they're stomping around the countryside somewhere having a great time and telling jokes with friends and family. God speed, Steve.

Colleen Poole

January 14, 2015

Your family has been so blessed by the love and example of Steve! He is one of a kind in so many categories! A piece of his goodness exists inside each of you and will continue to bless the world! He will miss you as much as you miss him--I hope you are made aware of the times he is near and of the support he is surrounding you with. It feels like Steve just got an "emergency transfer" in the big picture of life. I hope you find ways to cope and make sense of it as you pull together as a family! Everyone who knows you loves you!!!

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