Heaven needed some work done, so they called for the best.
Raymond Don Larsen was born October 20, 1945, in Salt Lake City, Utah, and returned home Christmas evening following an infection and cardiac complications. He was surrounded by his family.
Coming from humble beginnings, and being the oldest child, he valued education and played a vital part in making sure his parents and siblings were taken care of. Ever since he was little, Ray had a burning curiosity about how things worked. After graduating from South High School, Ray joined the Army Reserve where he worked in radio repair. He served a two-year mission in England, for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and then went on to attend the University of Utah where he earned a bachelor's degree in physics and a master’s degree in electrical engineering.
After meeting on a blind date, Ray later married Joyce Lambert in August 1970 in the Salt Lake Temple. They taught their seven children the value of service and hard work through construction and woodworking side businesses.
Ray always had an eye on those less fortunate than himself. He served faithfully in many callings in the church, including bishop. He loved being with the youth and in the scouting program, where he was awarded the Silver Beaver. He spent many nights camping and loved feeding the masses with his legendary dutch oven cooking.
Ray was a mentor to many. He was always eager to share his knowledge and experience with everyone. He could fix anything and took great joy in doing so. Not only would he show up to help anyone in need, but he’d do it with a smile on his face, no matter the circumstance. His commitment and dedication to serving others was unparalleled. He touched the lives of many and will be dearly missed.
Ray was proceeded in death by his parents Orion Larsen and Muriel Jackson, sister Lois, brother, Wilford, and grandson Caden Butler. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Joyce Larsen, children Linda McKnight (Daren), Leslie Butler (David), Sally Williams (Connon), Andrew (Katie), Kristy Fisher (Dan), Chad (Stacey), Melissa Wells (John), 26 grandchildren, and five siblings.
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In lieu of flowers please donate to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Missionary Fund.