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Craig Larson Obituary
Craig was born November 18, 1948 in Preston, Idaho, to Keith and Idella Borup Larson. He was the middle child - sandwiched between big brother John and little sister Kristen (Beckstead). His family and friends have enjoyed hearing his grand tales of childhood, full of BB gun mishaps, large animal encounters, and exciting adventures in the farmlands of Preston. After high school, he served an LDS mission to Denmark. He loved his mission and continued to pray in Danish throughout his life. He graduated from BYU in 1973, followed by law school at the University of Idaho. Craig married Margaret Ann Paulsen in the Salt Lake Temple on April 19, 1973. He often told us that marrying Margie was the best decision of his life. They worked as a team to bless the lives of everyone they met. Craig and Margie are the parents of Keith & Cheree Larson, Matthew & Lorraine Larson, Erik Finn & Mikaela Larson, Emily & Jacob Featherstone, and Lisa & Tyler Margetts. They are now the grandparents of 17 unusually talented grandchildren!
Craig worked as legal counsel for Utah Title & Abstract and Sorenson Development, and as a real estate project manager for the LDS Church. He was also an accomplished musician. Playing the piano and trombone were a part of his very being. He touched the lives of many people through music. He is the composer of many sacred hymns, sharing his faith and love for family with people around the globe. Craig had great faith in the Savior, Jesus Christ, which motivated him to serve others with enthusiasm and dedication. He loved serving as a bishop and, most recently, as a counselor in the stake presidency. He especially enjoyed working with the Boy Scouts, home teaching, and leading the ward choir.
Craig loved goofy jokes, western movies, mowing the lawn with a push-mower, fishing in the Uintas, ketchup, and foot rubs. He wouldn't let us go near the presents until he received his mandatory Christmas morning back scratch. He looked for the good in people and always gave everyone the benefit of the doubt. He was quick to compliment and always tried to do what was right.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 22nd, 11 AM, at the East Millcreek 6th Ward located at 3103 E Craig Dr. in Salt Lake City. Viewings will take place at the same location Tuesday from 6 PM to 8 PM and Wednesday from 9:30-10:30 AM. Interment will follow at Wasatch Lawn Cemetery located at 3401 S Highland Dr. in Salt Lake City. In lieu of flowers, friends are invited to follow Craig's example and give a kind act of service.
The family would like to express their appreciation to all those who have helped Craig throughout his life. In his own words, "Margie and I will know the Savior when we see Him, because we have seen Him in your faces and felt His love in your hugs." Papa always told us, "Leave it better than you found it." Well, Papa, you sure did! Online memories and tributes can be posted for the family at: HolbrookMortuary.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Craig Larson
Sponsored by Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park and Mortuary.
Jill Dastrup
July 13, 2024
I worked for Sorensen Department with Craig as my manager. We would have "name that toon " moments when I went into his office and music was on. He taught me to love music from the Big Band era. He used to say music isn´t music unless it makes you want to tap your feet to the beat. He taught about green belt leases and water rights. He was one of the most Christlike people I knew. He treated everyone with kindness, respect and compassion. When my father died he showed me empathy and played a beautiful piano piece at the funeral. He once asked me what I thought the word Circumspect meant in the scriptures. It means Believers are encouraged to walk circumspectly in order to navigate the evil and dangerous times. Living circumspectly requires believers to be watchful, discerning, and rooted in biblical wisdom. This definitely describes Craig.
Jan Hyde
July 13, 2019
I greatly miss Craig and think of him often.
Daron Bradford
August 16, 2015
I wish I were as eloquent as Linke Hebrew to express my thoughts and feelings of Craig. I met him when I was an intimidated freshman at BYU playing the the jazz band, and here was this good trombonist who could also sit at the piano and really wail. We went on with our lives and I lost track of him for a while, but I remember thinking many times about the influence he had on me. When I returned to Utah and started hearing him play piano again, it confirmed my ideas about how so much of a person's spirit, personality and humanity are expressed in their music. I had the opportunity to work with him recording a CD to raise funds for the general missionary fund. He created that with humility and a true sense of service. I celebrate that I was able to know him and be touched by him.
John Poulos
August 7, 2015
Craig inspired me to be a better musician.
Many great gig memories and a real joy to work with!
May his memory be eternal.
Linke Hebrew
July 25, 2015
I had the great fortune to perform professionally alongside Craig for many years in the Craig Larson Trio. Along with Jan Hyde, we played a million gigs together. Although we could not have been more different in personality, from the first note it seemed as if we were all cut from the same piece of cloth. We shared a common vision and a common commitment to the music that made that unit, literally, so much greater than the sum of its' parts. Craig was a gentle, understated powerhouse of talent, a tireless worker and a gracious leader. That trio was the first time I understood that the other musicians were listening so intently to every note and inflection I played and were reacting to it, that they were virtually breathing with me. It's called respect, and I did the same for them. We did it for each other. We used to say we were building a house together, brick by brick. That experience together shaped my professional career forever forward. I was doubly fortunate to be able to tell Craig how important this was to me before he passed. In his offhand, casual way he agreed that "we had a lot of fun together" but I know he was pleased to know the impact he had on me. He had a lot of impact on those around him. What a great gift to give and what a fine legacy to know our talent and efforts touched those around us! Thanks,Craig, and may you be sitting' in with Fats Waller, Earl Hines, Oscar Peterson and all the cats til the last note fades away.
July 22, 2015
Dear Margie and all,
I've been out of town at a family reunion in Montana, and had no idea that Craig was even ill. Our sincerest condolences at this time.
Craig was a friend from the first time that we met at BYU in 1971, and it has been a blessing in my life to have known him in mortality.
I would have been there today, if I had known.
Take care,
Vic & Carol Dupuis
Paige Paulsen
July 22, 2015
I just got back from the funeral and I am feeling inspired and elevated by the service. All of the talks were wonderful. Of course, the music was beautiful. I felt the love and connection the family has with each other and with dear friends. I am grateful that I was able to be in your presence. I loved seeing Craig at family functions. His energy was loving and kind.
John Brenchley
July 22, 2015
Craig and I are just two days apart in age. We grew up together in Preston ID. We loved scouting (both eagles) and music. Craig was much more disciplined with his music than I but both enjoyed playing together in band, the Essex jazz band and play trombone duets, trios and quartet for church, civic and school events. Once Craig and I were asked to play a trombone duet of "Oh Ye Mountains High" hymn for our ward youth fireside. As we practiced in Craig's basement,
we got a little silly and laughing. When we got up to play that number at the fireside, you guessed it, we burst out laughing halfway through the song. The kids thought it was great but the adults were not quite as amused. I can't remember if we finished it or not! Craig was slow to anger and looked on the good side of everyone. I admired that in him. I always admired his talents and maturity as we grew up together. I look forward to meeting him once again in heaven. May peace and comfort be with his dear wife, children, grandchildren and his siblings.
Joyce / Pete Parker
July 22, 2015
Dear Larson Family, our deepest condolences to you at this very sad time of your loss. We will miss Craig with you! His smile and music to never be forgotten, nor will he as a wonderful gentle giant we will all remember. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Sincerely with love, Byron Pete Parker (deceased) and Joyce Parker
Michelle Denney
July 22, 2015
My daughters and I were blessed by his inspired messages, beautiful music, and kind words during difficult times. My thoughts and prayers to his many loved ones and his wonderful wife. Thank you for making it possible for him to share his time and testimony so frequently.
Kathryn Orton
July 21, 2015
I have the greatest respect for Craig. He was my brother in our BYU family, and later a co-worker, working with the Directors of Temporal Affairs at the Church Office Building. Kay Briggs, Ron John, Adam Taylor, Craig, Barbara Burdick,and myself were the team for the Utah South Area. These gentlemen were like-minded, doing the Lord's work with sincere thought, compassion and integrity.
Craig and I retired at the same time--year's end, 2012. I'm so glad he had some years for "choosing time!"
I loved his music-making, his beautiful arrangements, and his concerts! Heaven is about to experience some wonderful music, if Craig has anything to do with it! And he will.
Lavon Day
July 21, 2015
We were privileged to serve as missionaries with Craig in the Real Estate Department of the Church. We enjoyed working with him. He was always so pleasant, kind, patient & great to work with. He always seemed to enjoy his job. We enjoyed his musical talents. He always had a smile on his face. He will be missed.
Lavon & Marianne Day
Janene & Janette Gull
July 21, 2015
We wanted to express our sincere condolences to the family of Craig Larson. We had the privilege of working with Craig at Utah Title & Abstract Company. Later, when Craig worked for the LDS Church Real Estate Department and we were with another title company, we had the opportunity to assist him in some of the Church's real estate projects. Craig was a very good title guy and a great guy in general, always optimistic and upbeat, no matter how difficult the details of a project might be. We also had the chance to hear and enjoy his music on several occasions and know what pleasure music brought to his life and to those who were lucky enough to be on the receiving end of his musical talents.
May your memories of Craig sustain you and bring you comfort at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Kirstie Jorgensen
July 21, 2015
Craig's friendship and beautiful music has touched our lives greatly. My Father picked up his horn and played again in memory of Craig when he heard the news. A tune between friends. He took my father through the temple and played with him and our love and appreciation for him as will his memory will live on forever.
Lori Ann
July 21, 2015
With grateful love and gratitude for the Light of Christ which shines in your countenance. For the goodness and fun shared with Margie and You years ago in our cousins dinners group. Always much love, Lori Ann
Ruby Vernon
July 20, 2015
Craig and Margie were such a good friends to my parent so. Checking up on there for several years. He also was a good leader in the stake as he made each member feel loved. His musical talent was amazing and he shared it freely. thanks for all your time and love. May the spirit of comfort be in your hearts as you struggle with such a big loss!
Joe and Joyce Goodman
July 20, 2015
Dear Margie,Just seeing this picture of Craig made us smile back at him. Thank you for capturing his spirit and kindness in the obituary you wrote. How we will miss him, his music, his philosophy and his treasured friendship. There is so much more. Our love to all of you who are so dear to him.
July 20, 2015
I can't believe he is gone. He was my friend in the Stake and at the library! Enjoyed our chats. And he gave me some reminders to hold on to! Lora McAllister
Janie Poulson
July 20, 2015
Craig and his outstanding family have touched our family for good in so many ways. We cherish the friendships and memories we have with all of them. Craig's beautiful influence and love will be with us always. Our love to all of you.
July 20, 2015
I have the greatest respect for Craig. He was my brother in our BYU family, and later a co-worker, working with the Directors of Temporal Affairs at the Church Office Building. Kay Briggs, Ron John, Adam Taylor, Craig, and myself were the team for the Utah South Area. These gentlemen made a great team, and were like-minded, doing the Lord's work with compassion and integrity.
Craig and I retired at the same time--year's end, 2012. I'm so glad he had some years for "choosing time!"
I loved his music-making, his beautiful arrangements, and his concerts! Heaven is about to experience some wonderful music, if Craig has anything to do with it! And he will.
Barb Merideth (Winskowski)
July 20, 2015
On behalf of my family Elizabeth, Jimmy, Lauren, Matt and Sean Winskowski, we offer our condolences and express appreciation for the lasting influence of our "Bishop" who was gentle, kind, tempered, talented, caring, easy to smile (we loved that twinkle in his eye), and was gifted with the ability to make you feel special and valued, that you were the most important person at that moment. We see him and Margie in his family, and know his legacy will carry forward. We wish you all peace and comfort in his memories and in knowing families are eternal! We will miss him. God bless the Larson family.
Eric Williams
July 19, 2015
My deepest condolences to the Larson family. Craig, as a Bishop, married my Mother and Step-Dad, Marge Williams and Edd Lancaster in April 2000, and as a great musician, played a wonderful piano during Moms funeral services last June, 2014. We considered Craig part of our family. A great loss to the world.
Cathryn Manning
July 19, 2015
Craig was such a kind and loving person, and so very, very talented. I had the joy of playing with him at our niece's wedding, and I was in awe of his natural gift. He will be greatly missed by many people.I send my love to Margie and family, and pray that they might have peace at this time.
M. Frodsham
July 18, 2015
President Larsen, our family will miss you very much. You were very kind to our family, and we really appreciated your concern for us. We still think about the time you were inspired to call us during a challenging time, just to check in. Thank you for your kindness and devotion to the gospel and to serving others. And, of course, who can forget seeing you playing music at all the weddings. You have left your family and others with plenty of happy memories, and lots of inspiration.
Mary Anne Hyde
July 18, 2015
Craig was at the hospital with us when our son passed away. He offered love, sympathy and most important the reminder of organ donation. It was as if Craig had awakened our hearts to a gift we could give from our son to others so they could accomplish their goals in life. I will always remember Craig fondly. Love to his family.
Jan Hyde
July 18, 2015
Craig was a very good friend. For many years we participated in events performing music with his trio. It was always a joy to play with him and I forever looked forward to the 'next gig'. Over the years and recently Craig and I had long and deep discussions from music to life and living. He was truely a fine human being. I will miss him dearly.
Charlotte Paulsen Warr Pannell
July 18, 2015
I remember Craig playing the music for our wedding reception...Scandinavian themed...He had everyone out dancing with his wonderful talent...When I think of a happy couple I think of Margie and Craig...They always seem to be smiling...I'm proud to be their cousin...Margie I am sending you a big hug with all my love from Alaska...I'm up here visiting my Margi who has a month old baby girl...I wish I could be there in person as you have been to all our family's funerals...May you feel peace I pray... xo
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