Steen Marinus Larsen

Steen Marinus Larsen, age 78, of Franklin, KY, passed away on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at his residence. Born on April 27, 1946, in Copenhagen, Denmark, Steen was the son of the late Peder M. Larsen and Edith Andersen Larsen. He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Larsen, and his two siblings, Jan Marinus Larsen and Marianne K. Larsen-Hruby.

 Steen is survived by his son, Ryan (Suzanne) Larsen of Barrington, IL; granddaughter, Camryn Larsen; step-daughters, Julie Amari of Northbrook, IL, Catherine (Nina) Amari of Highwood, IL, Kim (Todd) Stephens of Chattanooga, TN, and step-son Kenneth (Michelle) Bender of Atlantis, FL; 10 step-grandchildren, Erik, Michelle, Vinnie, Katie, Tyler, Andrew, Kade, Nicklaus, Coral, and Blake; 2 step-great grandchildren, McKinley and Madelyn. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Michael (Lisa) Cox of Franklin, KY; 2 nieces Catherine and Julieanne Cox; aunt Rose Liberio; and his beloved dog Penny. 

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Steen served as a medic during the Vietnam War from 1966-1968. His dedication led him from being a medic to a surgical assistant and ultimately to a teacher at an Army Service School on surgery preparation. Post-war, Steen's commitment to service continued as he became a member of numerous veteran service organizations, including AMVETs, American Legion, DAV, Vietnam Veterans of America, and the distinguished title of Kentucky Colonel.

 Steen's passion for helping others extended beyond his military service. He organized fundraisers for the community, taught basic first aid at "boot camps for kids," and advocated tirelessly for veterans to access the benefits they deserved. His selfless efforts supported homeless veterans and non-veterans in finding employment, paying bills, and accessing medical care.

 In his leisure time, Steen cherished moments with his children and grandchildren, sharing stories of his Danish heritage and life experiences. His warmth, generosity, and dedication endeared him to all who knew him. Steen Marinus Larsen will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his enduring legacy of service and love.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 10, 2024 from 1:00 PM until 3:00 PM at Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory. A memorial service will follow visitation at 3:00 PM at the funeral home with military rites performed by the Simpson County Honor Guard.  

 In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy can be made in Steen’s memory to DAV - Disabled American Veterans. VA Regional Office, Suite 390 West Main St., Rm 322 Louisville, KY 40202-6200. Envelopes will be provided at the funeral home. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory.  The website is www.gilbertfhonline.com.  The Facebook page is Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc.  The obituary phone line is 270-586-8844