Kenneth V. Larkin

Kenneth V. Larkin Died peacefully, April 23, 2006, surrounded by his devoted family, following a lengthy illness. Ken is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Sylvia; and his children, Christine Doran, Tony Larkin, Maureen Ustenci (Mustafa), Maria Duman and Anne-Marie Sicroff (Jonathan). He was predeceased by his son, Ken, Jr. His cherished grandchildren are Grace Doran, Micaela and Olivia Sicroff and Efejon Ustenci. Ken was born July 10, 1921, in Brooklyn, NY. He graduated from Hofstra University in 1943 and immediately entered the US Navy to serve in the South Pacific during WWII. In 1945 he married his true love, Sylvia Repetto, and they settled in California where they would raise their six children. After his military discharge, Ken began a long and distinguished career with Bank of America. Starting as a teller he worked his way up through the ranks and retired as executive vice president. In his early years with the bank he also worked as a math instructor at San Quentin Prison and managed a liquor store on weekends. His career evolved through many areas of responsibility and culminated in his being among the pioneers in the credit card industry. He franchised BankAmericard globally from Fresno to Tokyo. In this capacity he established life long friendships in every part of the world. In later years he served on many boards, notably as an original director of Student Loan Marketing Association, VISA USA, VISA International, St. Mary's Hospital SF and Guide Dogs for the Blind. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he enjoyed playing handball at the Olympic Club and golf at Silverado Country Club. He loved the 49ers and enjoyed many years of watching them play. His very favorite thing to watch was his grandchildren. He loved and admired each one of them in a special way and never tired of their company. Ken was a devout Catholic and lived his life guided by the teachings of the Church. He had been active in the Knights of Columbus and one of his life's greatest honors was being selected to become a Knight of Malta and taking part in the ceremony in Rome. He touched many lives with kindness and love. He made the world a better place. Our lives won't be the same without him but he will live forever in our hearts. Friends are invited to attend a Vigil at Duggan's Mission Chapel on Thursday, April 27, at 7PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Francis Solano Church, 3rd & Napa, 11AM, Friday, April 28, 2006. Arrangements under the direction of: DUGGAN'S MISSION CHAPEL 707.996.3655 Sonoma, CA