daughter-in-law and 4 grandchildren who loved him and will miss him dearly.

He suffered from Spinal Bulbar Muscular Atrophy, which became gradually and

progressively noticeable over the past 30 years. In spite of his situation, he was always

content with his life. He personified what the Bible talks about, that there is great gain

from godliness with contentment.

Although limited because of muscle weakness related to SBMA, he was never viewed as

a weak man. Typical of those with KD his physical strength decreased throughout the

years; however, his inner strength kept increasing. When people looked at Al Larsen, they

only saw strength.

His definition of integrity was “doing the right thing no matter what the cost” and that’s

how he lived his life. He used to say that he wanted to do his giving while he was living

and he did just that. He really enjoyed giving to others and was a cheerful giver, so

hilarious at times that he would make up the craziest reasons just to give.

A truly unselfish man, he lived his life for God, family and others. His wife of 51 and a

half years said she wishes everyone could have a marriage like they did. There wasn’t a

day that he wasn’t upbeat. His children agree that God blessed them with the best Dad.

He also gave in non-tangible ways, i.e. of himself … he was always there for everyone

else and he was the best listener. He could be trusted with anything you told him and

when you spoke he made you feel like you were the most important person in the world.

It seems everyone thought that he was their best friend. He was the best husband, father,

and grandfather one could ever have. The love of God was clearly seen in the way he

lived his life. He was the kindest and most forgiving man one could ever meet and he

was an inspiration to all.

He had a favorite Scripture verse, Romans 12:12 – “Rejoicing in hope, persevering in

tribulation, devoted to prayer.” He did all 3 to the very end. When he looked death in the

face he had no fear. He said that he was ready to go Home to be with the Lord and that

he had peace. He wanted to make sure that his family had peace too. To the very end he

was concerned about the well-being of everyone else above his own needs.

He leaves behind a heritage of faithfulness that inspires his family and so many others to

live godly lives. His life had a positive influence on all those that he came in contact

with. We will always carry a part of him with us and beautiful memories will always

keep him very much alive to us. We are thankful for the major part he played and will

continue to play in our lives.