Donald A Larson

Donald A Larson, 89, of Kirby, Wyo., passed away on December 16, 2024, at the Wyoming Medical Center in Casper, Wyoming surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on June 22, 1935, in Wichita, Kan., Don was the son of Phillip Daniel Larson and Opal Harriet (Redmond) Larson.

A proud veteran, Don graduated from high school in Wichita and went on to serve 20 years in the United States Navy. His service took him across the globe, particularly in the far east, and he was honored to have a career in the military that shaped much of his life.

After retiring from the Navy, Don pursued his love for learning. He attended Lewis Clark State College in Lewiston, Idaho, where he earned an associate degree in business administration. He continued his education at Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, Utah, earning a bachelor's degree in family history. Don later completed his master's degree in library science.

An active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Don served a two-year mission at the BYU Family History Library, where he developed a deep passion for genealogy and family history. He was later hired to train senior missionaries who went on family history missions around the world.

In 1995, Don moved to Kirby, Wyo., where Don became deeply involved in the local community. He was elected mayor and served for 15 years, a testament to his dedication and love for the rich history of rural Wyoming.

Don had a big heart, and his life was marked by several marriages that brought him joy, love, and a large, blended family. His first marriage to Deloris Carpenter brought him his daughter, Dee Larson. His third marriage to Joy Harrison added two sons, Phillip and Stephen Larson, to his family. Don's final and sixth marriage, in 2000, was to Jane Russell Ivie, a blended marriage where he welcomed three more children into his life: Shelly Ivie-Burrows, Matthew (Miyuki) Ivie, and Roberta (Jeramiah) Volk. Through these unions, Don was blessed with 10 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren, whom he loved.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; son, Stephen; brothers, Clarence and Ronald Larson; and sister, Wilma Larson.

He is survived by his wife, Jane; sons, Phillip (Brianna) Larson and Matthew (Miyuki) Ivie; daughters, Dee Larson, Shelly Burrows and Roberta Ivie Volk; sisters, Vicki (Don) Wonderling and Sandra (Charles) Wallace; 10 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at Monument Hill cemetery in Thermopolis, Wyo., on December 28, 2024, at 10 a.m. with Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you spend that money on Christmas presents for your family. Online condolences may be made at http://www.bryantfuneralhome.com.