Donald W Larson

A beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on March 8, 2025, at the age of 101, leaving behind a legacy of love, knowledge, and adventure. He was born in Ishpeming, Michigan, where his love for the outdoors and exploration first began. A proud graduate of the University of Michigan with a degree in Geology, he later earned his Master’s degree in Geology from Michigan State University, setting the foundation for a life rich in scientific discovery and outdoor pursuits.

As an avid adventurer, Don had an exceptional career marked by milestones that left an indelible mark on his family, his profession, and the places he called home. His early days in the National Park Service as a ranger in Yellowstone National Park from 1953 to 1958 shaped his deep appreciation for the natural world. He later participated in the Juneau Icefield Research Program (JIRP) in 1966, studying the Llewellyn Glacier. He was stationed at Atlin, British Columbia, where he took his family with him in 1969, forever cementing his love for nature’s grandeur.

Beyond his contributions to science, Don was a devoted and beloved teacher. He taught elementary grades at Jackson Helmer Elementary, high school chemistry in Alpena, and middle school science in Michigan Center. Prior to his teaching career he worked as a metallurgist at McDonnell Douglas (formerly known as Douglas Aircraft) in California, where his curiosity and work ethic flourished.

A decorated World War II veteran, Don served in the 100th Infantry Battalion, 397th Regiment, where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his courageous service and served in the Battle of Bitche and one of the final battles of WWII, at Heilbronn. His military service was one of many chapters in a life marked by dedication, passion, and sacrifice.

In 1949, Donald married Patty, a partnership that would span 61 years and bring four children into their lives. He is survived by his children Karen Larson, Eric (Cheri) Larson, Kristen (Tom) Garceau and Elin (Tony) Groves, 9 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.

A self-taught homebuilder, Don (with Patty) built homes and cabins with his own hands, often felling logs in the summer to create beautiful, lasting structures. He was a man who prioritized time with his family and friends over financial gain, teaching his loved ones that the richest moments in life were often the simplest ones.

In addition to his passion for geology and the outdoors, Don had an abiding love for music. His vinyl record and 8-track tape collection was vast, encompassing all genres, and he delighted in the sounds that brought him joy throughout his life. He was also an avid photographer, developing and printing his own images in his darkroom, and was an early adopter of new technology in photography, video, and computer technologies. His woodworking shop produced many handmade creations, from birdhouses, to step stools, desks and baby cradles, leaving behind pieces of his craft for future generations to cherish. Don was also a pilot, whose love for aviation led him to purchase his own airplane, a testament to his adventurous spirit.

Don is remembered for his integrity, his curiosity, and his deep love for his family and the natural world. His life was a testament to the importance of following one’s passions, creating with one’s hands, and cherishing every moment with those who matter most. His friendships lasted generations. He had a camaraderie of friends and continued to develop new friendships until the end. A fact that delighted him immensely.

He will be deeply missed by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those whose lives he touched. A celebration of life will be held June 8, 2025, 2 p.m., at the family home in Jackson, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) or Planned Parenthood are requested. Rest in peace, Don, Dad, Grandpa. You are forever in our hearts.