Peter "Richard" Larsen

1959 - 2025

Peter "Richard" Larsen, 66

DRIGGS, IDAHO-Peter "Richard" Larsen, a deeply cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 18, 2025, in Driggs, Idaho, at the age of 66.

Born on June 4, 1959, in Nampa, Idaho, Richard was the son of Ethel Larsen. Despite being born with significant developmental and physical challenges, his mother, Ethel, brought him home to the Teton Valley, which became his lifelong residence, loving him unconditionally.

Richard's early life in Driggs was characterized by simple joys. He loved playing "cowboys and indians," and TV heroes like the Lone Ranger and Tarzan helped shape his early communication. Though non-verbal, Richard communicated through associated words and signs, often using a joyful "Ggreaat!" (like Tony the Tiger) to express enthusiasm, especially for breakfast. He was devoted to his dogs, Tony and Pug, and affectionately referred to all dogs as "Lassie."

Richard was a member of one of the first special needs kindergarten classes in Teton Valley, where he met his future caretaker and lifelong friend, Melba Empey. Richard was known for his incredible strength, which he channeled into the Special Olympics, earning a medal in Shot Put. He enjoyed public school until the age of 21 and was known throughout town for his hearty handshake and his practice of greeting everyone he met as a friend.

After the passing of his mother, Ethel, on Halloween in 1983, Richard was welcomed into the home of his former teacher, Melba Empey, and her husband, Darrell E. Empey, and their family. Richard was a profound blessing to the Empey household, serving as a constant source of unconditional love, patience, and humor-he truly "made everything better." He proudly performed his household chores and continued his education as an adult at the Joshua Smith Foundation. He loved his bus drivers, his lifelong friends (Ken and Stacy), and those who worked at Joshua Smith. Richard also loved matchbox cars and would often spend hours reading and organizing his large magazine collection.

Richard loved music and had an unmistakable singing voice. He frequently led singing at family gatherings, always beginning every song with his favorite, "You are my Sunshine," a tune his mother first sang to him. He was a familiar and welcome face at

all community and family events, and the Empey family is deeply grateful for the profound lessons he taught them in kindness, non-verbal communication, and unwavering optimism.

The family takes comfort in knowing that Richard is now running freely, communicating clearly, and enjoying a joyous reunion with his mother, Ethel Larsen, and his dear friend, Melba Empey, as well as his Savior, Jesus Christ.

Richard is survived by his beloved foster father, Darrell E. Empey; his devoted primary caretaker and foster sister, Laura Empey; his cousin Dorlene Beard; his foster siblings: Cheryl, Julie, Becky, Steven, David (Rose), and Dennis; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A funeral service was held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 12 noon at the Driggs Idaho Stake Center. Richard was laid to rest at the Darby Cemetery beside his loving mother, Ethel Larsen.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Teton Valley Museum, Joshua Smith Foundation, Special Olympics, or a charity of choice.

For condolences, please visit

www.grandetetonfuneralhomedriggs.com.