Denny Larsen

1945 - 2025

Dennis "Denny" Jay Larsen peacefully returned to the loving arms of his Heavenly Father on September 17, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born to Neil and Opal Larsen on August 15, 1945 in Ely, NV, Denny was the second oldest of eight children. He loved his parents and siblings fiercely and maintained a close-knit relationship with them his entire life.

In 1967, Denny married Carolyn Westby, and together they welcomed a son, Jonathan. Though they later divorced, Denny remained grateful for the blessing of their son. In 2011, he married Doreen Matheson and was honored to embrace her six children as his own, expanding the family he loved so much.

From a young age, Denny worked alongside his father on the family ranch, where he developed both a strong work ethic and a lifelong passion for ranching. During his school years, he competed in the White Pine County Horseshow and participated in local cuttings. His love for competition eventually led him to rodeo. Starting with calf and team roping, he later took on bareback bronc riding in high school. At age 20, however, his rodeo career came to an end after a bull threw him, breaking a vertebra in his back.

After graduating from White Pine High School in 1963, Denny worked for Kennecott and joined the National Guard, retiring after six years of service. A cowboy at heart, he returned to his roots, spending the rest of his life ranching. In 2013, he achieved his lifelong dream of owning a ranch, making his home near Snowflake, Arizona.

Denny was an extraordinary horseman with a unique gift for connecting with horses. His patience, steady hand, and deep respect for the animals set him apart. He attended the Western School of Horseshoeing and worked for many years as a skilled farrier. Beyond his own accomplishments, Denny generously shared his knowledge of riding, roping and ranching with countless others, blessing many lives in the process.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Denny had a strong and abiding testimony. He served faithfully in numerous callings, including several branch presidencies and bishoprics, where he experienced profound moments that solidified his faith in Jesus Christ.

He is preceded in death by his parents (Neil & Opal Larsen) and his brother Allen. Survived by his wife Doreen and children Jonathan (Marisa), Sydney (Jason), Sam (Jessica), Ben (Vicki), Jack (Ivan), Betsy (Lawrance), Luke (Becky), 17 grandchildren and many other family and friends that meant the world to him.

The family is grateful for the compassion and care he received through Accord Hospice. A special thank you to nurse Patty for her dedication and love.

Celebration of Life: Saturday, September 20th at 5:00 p.m. 72 N9188 Concho, AZ 85924.

Funeral: Saturday, September 27th at 11:00 a.m. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 88 Main St Lund, NV 89317.

Interment at Lund, NV Cemetery.