Carl Everett Larson

I went looking for words spoken by this unexpected muse and 'virtual mentor' of over 20 years, only to find that he has "graduated". In reading condolences, I find myself strangely moved. This is because, in the space of one single conference, I found myself face to face with a person who shaped my perceptions about collaboration, for a lifetime. How could that be? I'm not sure...it was something about not just his insights, expertise, skill, but a certain essence, a sense that here was an individual imparting to the world what he was destined to share. This seems rare, and it certainly was singular for me. He sounds like a true 'character'; condolences and blessings to those in the inner circle that he left behind. Thank you Dr. Larson; it still seems true as it did that day at the conference..that together, we are more of 'everything', than the smartest person working alone...may we use our power for good.

Carl presented in public health leadership programs for me for many years, starting around 2005 or so. I loved working with him. I enjoyed his presentations every time and feel sure that I'm a better leader having heard him speak a dozen times or more. He was fantastic in front of a group-- authentic, funny, provocative, and so thoughtful. He changed the trajectory of many a leader, and many a team.

Carl directed my Ph.D. dissertation in the mid-90s. I learned so much from this man. He reminded me that I am the expert in my field, on the day I defended. He encouraged me to fly. One of my most treasured times with him came years after graduating from DU. He asked me to help him work on a fictional story he was crafting. As a published author of fiction, I was honored to switch places with my mentor.

I deeply appreciate all he gave me.

RIP, dear Carl.

I met Carl in '91 and quickly became one of his biggest fans. We worked, lunched, and laughed together after that initial meeting for 33 years. I miss him so very much and will always miss his presence in my life. His celebration of life today was such a fitting tribute to one of the most wonderful people I have ever met. It is impossible to describe the significance Carl had in my personal and professional life in a few sentences. I will forever be thankful for knowing him and that our last lunch together was our 'country boy' lunch at my home which included walleye, homemade coleslaw, and potatoes. He loved those. Ride high and free my friend. Love ya man!

I had the honor of sitting down with Carl and learning about his career when I interviewed him for my influential person assignment in 2014 RIHEL ALTP. Carl's ease and expertise as RIHEL Faculty inspired me to explore a second career and I credit him for encouraging me to become a consultant. I will always have fond memories of Carl. My condolences to his family.

Carl has been such an influential part of my career. I first met Dr. Carl Larson around 2008 when he was a guest speaker for one of our leadership development programs. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time - as he shared stories - to help us understand challenging concepts related to conflict and negotiation. The description by others - of him being brilliant, gentle, kind, generous, funny, and humble - are exactly how I experienced him that day. He could answer any question - site the expert on the topic faster than Google - and then turn it around to participants to hear their thoughts too. And, while he had done tremendous research and worked with incredible teams, he was so humble he only gave others and his past students all the credit. He made concepts simple to where you thought he was talking about your team - before he mentioned, oh-by-the way - it was a team at NASA!

Over the years, Carl worked as a consultant and expert with our organization on several leadership and team professional development programs where he did teaching and coaching. And as a result, he became the major influence on my returning for my PhD, changing the trajectory of my career. He mentored me along the way, even though he could not officially be on my dissertation committee. He was a true friend, mentor, colleague, teacher, humanitarian, and leader. I will never forget his stories, whether over a cup of coffee or as part of a curriculum/course planning, training or program debrief. Every story touched my heart and ranged from leadership and teams, his funny gambling strategies, and my favorites. the ones about the love of he had for his family.

Thank you Carl for leaving such a powerful legacy in every student and life you touched on your journey. And, like I promised a couple years ago when you had to step back from teaching in our programs, I will keep referencing you and sharing your stories forward. You will not be forgotten.

Rest in peace my dear friend.

Deb Center
Chief Program Officer - Colorado Center for Nursing Excellence

Prof Larson was one of the best teachers I had during my PhD at DU. I was a lost soul in an unfamiliar environment in a new country, and his ever present smile, and witty humor during teaching helped me settle down in this strange, new and challenging profession. I remember him giving me a thumbs up and a wink with his characteristic wide smile when I was presenting some concept in the class on teamwork, and I mentioned the term, 'benign cycle', to indicate the opposite of a more widely known term, 'vicious cycle' . He told me that the classroom was my canvas, and I should not hesitate to be as creative as I wanted when teaching/ presenting something.

You contributed significantly to who I am as a teacher Prof. Larson. May you find the best place in Heaven.

Condolences to the Larson family.

Aradhna Malik, INDIA

Carl directed my dissertation in 1990. I could not have done it without him. Before the oral defense, I took him out to dinner to ask him what to expect. He said,"You know more than anyone in the room about this topic." We laughed, and I paid for dinner. He was a mentor and dear friend. RIP Carl.

Condolences to Suzie and the extended Everett Larson family.

May Carl rest in peace.