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Stephen Larsen Obituary

Stephen Burt Larsen 1942 ~ 2007 Stephen Burt Larsen, age 65, our wonderful husband, dad, grandpa and friend passed away July 10, 2007 in Murray, Utah. He was born January 25, 1942 in Salt Lake City to Carl Homer and Thelma Ann Burt Larsen. A commercial airline pilot for over 37 years, Steve loved to fly. Flying was not only his career, it was his passion. He also enjoyed restoring classic cars, which he started at age 15 and continued for the rest of his life. Steve was an accomplished runner, competing in many challenging marathons and a triathlon, including Pikes Peak, and the New York marathon. He was an Eagle Scout as well as a Scout leader. He was an excellent example of giving to others and was a great friend to many. Above all, was the profound love he had for his family; Mary Alice, his deeply adored wife, married for 43 years. His children and grandchildren meant everything to him. He served an LDS mission in Stockholm, Sweden as well as many church callings. He is survived by wife, Mary Alice; sister, Carlene Fitzgerald; son, Erik (Lisa) Larsen; daughter, Crystal (Matt) Datilo; son, Vance (Aly) Larsen; daughter, Julie (Zack) Taylor; daughter, Mary (Dan) Finken; daughter, Stephanie Larsen; and 13 grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his father, Carl Homer Larsen; mother, Thelma Ann Larsen; father-in-law, Russell Victor Frandsen; brothers-in-law, James Russell Frandsen, and Gerald Fitzgerald. Funeral services will be Monday, July 16, 2007, 11 a.m. at Brighton 5th Ward, 2561 E. Bengal Blvd. (7800 S). Friends and family may visit Sunday, July 15, 2007 from 6-8 p.m. at Mountain View Memorial Mortuary, 3115 East 7800 South, as well as one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment at Mountain View Memorial Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family via www.memorialutah.com

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Published by The Salt Lake Tribune from Jul. 15 to Jul. 16, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
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Abe Allen

July 27, 2007

Steve Larsen was home teacher to my family in Sandy. I grew up a year behind Vance and the Larsen's were always true friends to our family. Vance's Dad bought my brother's Datsun 2000 to help him out one time; and because Steve knew cars. At one time he had the sweetest original Shelby Mustang. Anyway, I always felt welcome by Vance's Dad and all the Larsen's. Steven Larsen was an awesome person.

July 22, 2007

I had the priviledge of growing up with the Larsens in Evergreen. I was good friends with Crystal. Steve reminds me a lot of my dad, kinda quiet, soft spoken, and a big smile. Erik talked about "the mustang" his dad gave him, well I remember when Crystal got her "mustang" from him. That was her pride and joy, just as it was to her dad. That car was clean, polished and vacuumed at all times! I just remember him always outside working on his cars when I was over there. We will miss him at the yearly "Evergreen" reunions, but hope to see Mary Alice and some of the kids and grandkids next time. We're thinking of you all during this time of your lives, but be reassured that we will "all meet again"!
All our love
Bryan and Brenda Keck (Rains)

Elder Benj and Reinje Rains

July 22, 2007

Mary Alice and family, we are sorry to hear about Steve's passing. We have so many fond "Evergreen " memories. Evergreen was a great place with lots of life time friends. Elder Rains and I were reminiscing about some memories of Evergreen. Benj mentioned the first time he met Steve, they were on a service project cutting fire wood. Benj said there was this guy that would put these 6 foot long logs on his shoulders and "run" up the hill. He finally asked someone "who is that crazy guy "running" up the hill with these logs?........the answer....Steve Larsen. We have always kept in contact with him and Mary Alice and enjoyed their visits. We had plans to get together after our mission. Well Steve, we'll see YA later.... He was always polite and always had a smile on his face. We will miss the walks on the california beaches with them. Wish we could have been there to pay our last respects, but our mission ends next spring. Mary Alice and family, we'll think of you often and want you to know you are all in our prayers. The plan of salvation is a great truth that can help us get through our trials, just endure to the end. We love you

Capt. Dale BUSS/Frontier Airlines

July 20, 2007

Capt. Steve: GODSPEED and TAILWINDS dear friend, in a very troubled, challenging world we entrusted and pursued the highest values.

Summer Gregory

July 19, 2007

To Captain Steve and his family, I am so very sorry for your loss. I met steve at Sierra Pacific airlnes and later Though my Dad Captain Ron Gregory.(They flew together at Frontier Airlines)Dad and steve were always passing stories they had together through me (Very entertaining.) Steve is truely one of the kind captains, one of the old school guys that had it all together.(A great family, A super personality And very safe to fly with) I am very greatful to have met Steve and beable to fly with Him. God Bless Love Summer

Bob Ashby

July 19, 2007

Condolences to the Larsen family,I met Steve when we were going through training in 1972, we could always talk about any thing, especially cars (Shelby's and Mustang). A great guy, will be missed by all of the Old Frontier.

Leo Canavan

July 19, 2007

It was an honor to have known and flown with Steve at the old Frontier. He was a pleasure.

Leo Canavan

Francis "Frank" Meyer

July 19, 2007

STEVE LARSEN, As I rember him: He was a member of the CV-580 Ground School Training Class that I was Instructing. I never saw him without that warm hearted smile that was so sincere and honest. An exceptional student who stood out as being attentive, quiet and a true gentleman.
GOD BLESS YOU STEVIE AND YOUR FAMILY.

Francis W."Frank" Meyer
Honorary Captain
Old FRONTIER

Karen Sharp

July 18, 2007

Steve Larsen was an exceptional man and one that made a difference in so many people's lives. I met him at Sierra Pacific Airline, Morris Air, and Southwest Airlines. As a flight attendant, he was one of my favorite pilots to fly with. He was incredibly professional and always watched out for his crew. Away from work, he helped me more than once with car troubles and even bought my Lincoln Versailles to replace the transmission in his Versailles. Whenever his sweet wife would travel with Steve on layovers, he was a wonderful example of a caring, loving husband. My heart is sad to hear of his passing so young in his life. I am grateful to have known Steve and know his legacy of wonderful husband, father, and friend will be remembered as a blessing to all of us.

Donna Harrison

July 18, 2007

It was always so enjoyable to fly with Steve, as he was a such a true gentleman and very kindhearted. He always had that sweet smile on his face, and I never recall seeing him otherwise. My sincere condolences to the family at the time of your loss. I recently lost my 91 year old Mom, so I certainly know the sense of loss that you must be feeling right now.
Aloha and Blessings,
Donna
FL F/A 1970-1986

Clyde Hart

July 18, 2007

I had Steve occasionally in my right seat, and he was an exceptional and professional pilot. His demeanor showed his love for our church and it's doctrines. He never lost sight of his spiritual and secular obligations. We'll all see Steve again. It was an honor knowing him.

JIM BUICK

July 18, 2007

STEVE WAS IN MY CLASS OF '72 AT FRONTIER SO WE DIDN'T FLY TOGETHER BUT DID, ON A COUPLE OF OCCASIONS, TRAIN TOGETHER. HE WAS AN EXCELLENT PROFESSIONAL PILOT AND A GENTLEMAN. HE WILL BE MISSED. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH HIS EXTENDED FAMILY.

Coke and Cindy Newell

July 18, 2007

We have just returned from California, and so missed being on the front end of the sad news of Steve's passing. We express all our love and condolences to the family, and will long miss our yearly Evergreen branch reunions with him!

Becky Juhlin

July 18, 2007

I flew with Steve for 3 airlines. When we were flying a Seattle Anchorage trip. One of the flight attendants (Deanna) said she had lost her shoe. She searched and then was convinced that one of the passengers had stolen her shoe. She made an announcement stating that no one was leaving the plane until her shoe was found. After awhile, Steve called on the interphone and told Deanna to come to the cockpit because we couldn't have this unprofessional behavior going on. When she got there, her shoe was sitting on the console. Steve just smiled and looked straight ahead and continued flying. I always felt safe when I was flying with Steve, he set the standard of what a Captain should be: skilled, professional and funny.

Becky Juhlin

Walker Ross

July 18, 2007

Reading of Steve's passing, I reflect on the many fond memories I had working with him at Frontier. He was always a joy to be with and we had many good times together. After two decades I can still remember his big smile and wonderful personality. He will surely be missed by all.

Wayne W. O

July 17, 2007

As an aquaintance with myself and daughter, many years ago Steve gave us a wonderful experience in a glider over Heber Valley

Don W Miracle

July 17, 2007

Was my Honor to have known Steve.
He will be missed by all.

LAURI ANDERSEN

July 17, 2007

TO STEVE'S FAMILY, I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW HOW SADDENED I AM TO HEAR OF HIS PASSING. I FIRST MET STEVE AT SIERRA PACIFIC AIRLINES, THEN MOVED ON TO MORRIS AIR AND SOUTHWEST AIRLINES WITH STEVE. HE WAS ALWAYS SO KIND AND SHARING TO ALL OF US WHO KNEW HIM. PLEASE KNOW WHAT A GREAT FRIEND AND CO-WORKER HE WAS TO ALL OF US IN THE AIRLINE INDUSTRY. I KNOW HE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED BY ALL.

Dan Cady

July 17, 2007

I was a fellow pilot at Frontier with Steve and always remember his great sense of humor. Always kept us laughing. My deepest condolences.

Kathy (& Dave) Jones

July 17, 2007

It has always been a rewarding experience to spend time with Steve & Mary Alice & all of their family. Steve is one of my favorite cousins & friends, family is so important to Steve & Mary Alice (also my cousin). I wish I had a Dad like Steve to grow up with. What a great example of love and goodness and fun for all of us. Love and prayers to the great Larsen family.

Rich & Claudia Harman

July 17, 2007

Steve and I became good friends at the SLC airport. We both worked for Morris Airlines and made the transistion to Southwest together. I was an OPS agent and filled out his weight and ballance sheets every morning he flew. He always made you smile no matter how your day was going. He was never to be busy to look you up and say hello. He will missed by all who's life he touched. Fairwell my friend. Clear blue sky ahead.

Deanne Curtis

July 16, 2007

I am so sorry to hear of Steve's passing. He was a good friend to me as I grew up across the street. My Dad was"Skipper" Steve's scoutmaster and I'm sure they are renewing their friendship now. Steve once gave me a puppy and together we hid it in the chicken coop until my parents found it and made me give it back. I'll always remember how fun it was to have Steve for a friend. May Heavenly Father bless you with his spirit at this difficult time.

Chris Olson

July 16, 2007

As I think about Steve, I can't help but smile. I fondly remember his great smile and his wonderful sense of humor. I got to know Steve mostly through Vance. I always love to hear stories from Vance about his Dad, whether it be from his flying days or recent jokes He had played. I feel honored to have known Steve and to have had the opportunity to tag along on flights with him and Vance. He truly was a master behind the controls of an airplane and he passed that on to Vance. My deepest sympathy goes out to the Larsen family, May God comfort You and bring peace to your hearts.

Sandie Hadley

July 16, 2007

I first worked with Steve at Morris Air, and subsequently at Southwest. He was one of the finest pilots I have ever worked with. He treated all of the flight attendants with respect and appreciation. His humor helped us get through many a long day. Steve loved his wife and children so much and was always telling stories of his family. The nature of the job prevents us from working together as much as we would like, but I have always liked and admired Steve. There is always something nice about flying with another LDS person, and being able to share things of the spirit. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to your entire family. May the Lord bless you and may the spirit bring peace.
Love,
Sandie Hadley

Mark Wright

July 16, 2007

I'm grateful to have known Steve and his family. He has always been an example to me. I cherish the friendships made with their family growing up. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Larsens.

Dick Flygare

July 16, 2007

Steve was my simulator instructor during 737 type rating training. He was a superb pilot, an outstanding instructor and a good friend. I will always remember and value our association. May the good Lord bless him and comfort his family with the knowledge that Steve touched so many lives for the better.

Alan Harris

July 15, 2007

We share your sorrow at this time in the passing of Steve. He was a good friend and a great pilot. I worked with him as a pilot at Frontier for many years and Jill and I will miss him.
Sincerely, Alan and Jill Harris

Julie Keller

July 15, 2007

I met Steve at Morris Air when I was a timid, new flight attendant. He was always so very nice to me, as he was to absolutely everyone he encountered. He was that rare breed of person who is constantly upbeat and positive. Steve was many people's favorite pilot with which to work. He was knowledgable and safe, but most appreciated were: his first rate sense of humor, his compassion, the respect with which he treated others, his loyalty and his easy going attitude. His blue eyes radiated his kind spirit and they sparkled with his joyous outlook on life. He spoke often, with touching fondness, about his wonderful family. I am thankful I had the opportunity to know such a wonderful man. It is unfortunate that he left his earthly existance so soon. But our world is a better place for the good will Steve shared with everyone he knew. He will be missed by many, many coworkers who's lives he touched and made an impression upon. I wish his family strength, love, courage and faith in getting through their loss. I hope all of you can find comfort in knowing how much Steve adored each of you and how proud he was of his family. All my best, all my respect, and my deepest condolances.

Linda Rich

July 15, 2007

Captain Larsen was a sweet tender man who loved his family, his cars, and his runs. Steve taught me to fly in the early 70s and I have never forgiven him for it. I completely fell in love with being up in the blue and never had enough money to stay aloft, but it was a treasured experience. He had so much patience and I was privileged to rekindle our friendship when we both found ourselves working for Morris/SWA in the 90s. We've lost tough over the years but the last time we spoke he was anxious for retirement and I am saddened to find he only had 5 short years to enjoy it. Steve always had his heart in the right place. He was a humble example of priesthood power. I loved the twinkle in his blue eyes and how he laughed as hard as anyone at his own jokes. He said to me several times "life is short, so you gotta live it right". He will be missed!

Steve and Sytske Woodhouse

July 15, 2007

We will miss Steve. What great memories we have of Evergreen. We were all together there for that special time. He was always so energetic and friendly. Our condolences to Alica Ann and the family. We are proud to say we knew him when. All our love!

Cherie (Smith) Romney

July 15, 2007

I knew your dad by the example he set for you, Vance. The man that you are today is because of his example. I am so sorry for your sudden loss. The Lord's ways are mysterious; if only we knew all, as He does, our will could more easily be joined with His. I know your dad is now blessing the spirits in the next life, just as he blessed those who knew him here. My prayers are with you, that the Lord will strengthen you and lift you up during this very difficult time. All my love to you and your family, especially to your dear, sweet mom.

Billy & Cheryl Walker

July 15, 2007

To Steve's family we send our deepest condolences. We flew together for many years at the old Frontier Airlines. Steve was a wonderful person, excellent pilot, and someone we all admired for his athleticism. He used to run from the airport to the hotel on our trips to Jackson Hole - some 10 miles. Amazing!

To Steve, we wish you blue skies, smooth air, warm soft tailwinds and a bright star to steer by on your Flight West...

Robert Frandsen

July 15, 2007

Never a finer man has graced this wonderful country than Steven Larsen. Those of us fortunate enough to have known him will miss his kind generous loving demeanor. Our prayers are with his family whose loss can not be determened my mere words. I speak for the Frandsen Family and our friends who will cherish the memory of this amazing man and all his accomplishments.

Dave Sanctuary

July 15, 2007

Steve and I were classmates back in September 1972 as we began our careers with Frontier Airlines. He was always the pilot one number senior to me, and as such, we often found ourselves in training together. He was such a great pilot and a good friend. Frontier's demise removed the two of us from close contact with each other, yet the memories of our experiences together will live on forever. The first and last lines of the pilot's prayer, High Flight, seem very fitting as a tribute to Steve ......"Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth .......put out my hand and touched the face of God."

Jake Lamkins

July 15, 2007

All Steve's many friends at the old Frontier Airlines are saddened to hear of his passing.
Our condolences and sympathy to the family.

Karen Tanner

July 15, 2007

My Evergreen Colorado memories are precious to me. I'm happy that we shared those days with the Larsen family. I am so sorry for your great loss. Love, Karen Tanner

Woody & Ruth Hardman

July 15, 2007

Sorry to hear about Steve's passing. We'll pass the word around Evergreen & Conifer wards. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Sincerely,
Woody & Ruth Hardman

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