Obituary: Dr. Ernest O. Larsen

Dr. Ernest O. Larsen 11/11/29 ~ 12/31/05 SUNSET - Ernest O. Larsen passed away December 31, 2005 with his family by his side at the University of Utah Medical Center due to complications from Parkinson's disease. Ernest was born November 11, 1929 in Emery, Utah to Reed Ernest and Eunice Larsen. He was the eldest of four children. While growing up he developed his love of God, nature, home, and country. He graduated from South Emery High School, where he was Sr. Class President. He was called and prepared to serve an LDS mission in the North Central States, when he was drafted into the army and served during the Korean War. He graduated from Brigham Young University and then attended dental school at Northwestern University. He established a dental practice in Clearfield and retired in 1996. He married Betty Argyle August 19, 1954 in the Salt Lake Temple. Before Betty passed away from Leukemia, they were married 25 years and blessed with four children. He also lovingly nurtured daughters, Marlyn Tsiniginie Wood and Marlene Pikivit through the Indian Placement Program. On July 10, 1980, he married Francine Smith in the Manti Temple, becoming a father to her five children and dedicating his life in service to his family. His family fondly remembers and will greatly miss his humorous antics, unique stories, adventures, and artwork which have been appreciated worldwide. Dad was a spiritual giant and spent his life lightening the loads of others. He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and held many leadership positions, including bishop. He served faithfully to the end, even completing December's home teaching. His life was evidence of unwavering faith, true charity, humility and pure unconditional love. His example was that of a true follower of Christ. He is survived by his beloved wife, Francine; and children, Linda (Les) Wilberg, Castle Dale, UT, Shelly (Lynn) Hook, Sunset, UT, Lisa (Steve) Bates, Idaho Falls, ID, Todd (Annette) Larsen, Mt. Airy MD, Robynne (Les) Carter, SLC, UT, Stephanie (Curtis) Cutshaw, SLC, UT, Denyse (Tim) Moore, Oxford, CT, Richard (Joni) Swanson, Clearfield, UT, Amilynne (John) Jorgensen, Dearborn, MI; 35 adoring grandchildren; brothers, Clare (Carol) Larsen, SLC, UT, Ralph (LaVon) Larsen, Sandy, UT; sister, Loralee Behling Midvale, UT. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty; his parents; and brother-in-law, Norman Behling. Funeral services will be held Thursday, 11 a.m. at the LDS Sunset Stake Center, 220 W. 975 N. Friends and family may call Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at the Lindquist's Layton Mortuary, 1867 North Fairfield Road, and from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at the ward. Interment, Clearfield City. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the LDS Church Perpetual Education Fund at www.lds.org Email condolences to the family at llm@lindquistmortuary.com