Our loving handsome husband, devoted Dad, and best-Grampy-ever, Verl Kent Larsen passed away Sunday evening, February 25, 2018 surround by his family. Kent was born in Ogden, Utah, July 2nd 1939, one of five children born to LaVern Alfred Larsen and Linzy Shelton Larsen. Kent attended East High School and the University of Utah where he was a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. He married Pamela Struve in 1962 in the Salt Lake Temple. Kent devoted his life to his wife and children, providing for their needs and giving every ounce of his time. More than anything else, Kent's greatest source of happiness and pride were his wife Pam, his children and grandchildren. His favorite family time together was fishing the South Fork of the Snake River, camping at Red Castle Lakes, golfing with his childhood friends, and hunting in his beloved Mendon. During the last few months of his life, he enjoyed eating Howdy's Homemade Ice Cream while watching U of U basketball and the Utah Jazz with his grandsons. Kent was the happiest while serving others.
He served a mission for the LDS church in the Sydney New South Wales Australia Mission where he was a member of the Mormon Yankee Basketball Team. Throughout his life he served valiantly in many callings, his favorite being the greeter in the Parleys 1st Ward.
Kent was associated with the coin-operated arcade and vending equipment industry for over 50 years where he maintained hundreds of meaningful friendships as "one of the most liked and respected men in our industry…a true gentleman." Kent was a great people person, a true fisher of men.
Kent is loved and will be missed by his adoring wife and eternal companion, Pamela, their very grateful children, Trevor and Leslie, Todd and Mindy, Tyson and Angie, and Tait and Brandy, and their 20 beautiful grandchildren. Kent looked forward to his reunion with his parents, his brother Stan and sister Carolyn.
Our family would like to thank our dear friends and neighbors for their love and support, with a special salute to Tyson and Angie, for their unwavering devotion during Dad's final days. Heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Dechet at Huntsman Cancer, Dr. Jeff Pettey at Moran Eye Center, and Dad's nurse Jolene, for their thoughtful concern and care.
The funeral service will be Monday, March 5th at 11:00 a.m. at the LDS Meeting House located at 2350 South 2100 East, SLC, with viewings Sunday night, March 4th from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and from 9:30-10:30 a.m. prior to the funeral.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Huntsman Cancer Institute in memory of V. Kent Larsen. Condolences can be shared with the family at www.larkinmortuary.com. Interment will be in the Mendon City, Utah Cemetery.
