James R. Larson

Oct. 16, 1932 – Sept. 12, 2014

James R. Larson died Sept. 12, 2014, at St. Vincent Hospital in Billings of myasthenia gravis. He had been diagnosed with the autoimmune disease only three weeks ago. He was 81 years old.

He was born in Sioux Falls, S.D., on Oct. 16, 1932, the son of Clifford A. Larson and Louise (Schmidt) Larson. When he was an infant, the family moved to Lovell, where he spent his childhood.

When he was 17 years old, he joined the Wyoming Army National Guard and soon found himself on his way to Korea as the war broke out in August, 1950. He was attached to the 300th Armored Field Artillery Battalion and spent 18 months in that Asian country while serving his country. Cpl. Larson was honorably discharged from the service in September, 1952.

He was a Lovell High School graduate. He began working for Mountain States Power in 1952. That company later became Pacific Corp. and would be Jim’s employer for the next 38 years. He worked at various positions during his career and was transferred to Glenrock, Thermopolis, Rawlins, and finally Riverton, where he retired in 1990. After retiring Jim loved playing golf and keeping a beautiful yard. He was baptized and confirmed into the Lutheran faith and was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Billings.

Jim was married to the love of his life, Linda (Brosious) Larson, for 57 years. She survives him as well as the three children who were born to this union: Nance (John) Moudy, of Vancouver, Wash., Mitch (Kim) Larson, of Riverton, and Natalie (Mike) Pigg, of Billings. Also surviving are six grandchildren, Chris Moudy, Ryan Moudy, Nic Larson, Nicole Larson, Jay Harris and Whitney Harris, and five great-grandchildren with two great-grandsons on the way. His only sibling, sister Nan Nicholls, of Lovell, also survives. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

Cremation has taken place at Dahl Funeral Chapel, and a private family service will be held at a later date. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.dahlfuneralchapel.com.