Craig Steven Larson

"It's all about faith, family, and friends. Measure the importance of everything you do by its effect on those three things." This was the motto of our gentle husband, father, and grandfather, Craig Steven Larson. Papa passed away July 13, 2015 at the age of 66 from gastric cancer.

Craig was born November 18, 1948 in Preston, Idaho, to Keith and Idella Borup Larson. He was the middle child - sandwiched between big brother John and little sister Kristen (Beckstead). His family and friends have enjoyed hearing his grand tales of childhood, full of BB gun mishaps, large animal encounters, and exciting adventures in the farmlands of Preston. After high school, he served an LDS mission to Denmark. He loved his mission and continued to pray in Danish throughout his life. He graduated from BYU in 1973, followed by law school at the University of Idaho. Craig married Margaret Ann Paulsen in the Salt Lake Temple on April 19, 1973. He often told us that marrying Margie was the best decision of his life. They worked as a team to bless the lives of everyone they met. Craig and Margie are the parents of Keith & Cheree Larson, Matthew & Lorraine Larson, Erik Finn & Mikaela Larson, Emily & Jacob Featherstone, and Lisa & Tyler Margetts. They are now the grandparents of 17 unusually talented grandchildren!

Craig worked as legal counsel for Utah Title & Abstract and Sorenson Development, and as a real estate project manager for the LDS Church. He was also an accomplished musician. Playing the piano and trombone were a part of his very being. He touched the lives of many people through music. He is the composer of many sacred hymns, sharing his faith and love for family with people around the globe. Craig had great faith in the Savior, Jesus Christ, which motivated him to serve others with enthusiasm and dedication. He loved serving as a bishop and, most recently, as a counselor in the stake presidency. He especially enjoyed working with the Boy Scouts, home teaching, and leading the ward choir.

Craig loved goofy jokes, western movies, mowing the lawn with a push-mower, fishing in the Uintas, ketchup, and foot rubs. He wouldn't let us go near the presents until he received his mandatory Christmas morning back scratch. He looked for the good in people and always gave everyone the benefit of the doubt. He was quick to compliment and always tried to do what was right.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 22nd, 11 AM, at the East Millcreek 6th Ward located at 3103 E Craig Dr. in Salt Lake City. Viewings will take place at the same location Tuesday from 6 PM to 8 PM and Wednesday from 9:30-10:30 AM. Interment will follow at Wasatch Lawn Cemetery located at 3401 S Highland Dr. in Salt Lake City. In lieu of flowers, friends are invited to follow Craig's example and give a kind act of service.

The family would like to express their appreciation to all those who have helped Craig throughout his life. In his own words, "Margie and I will know the Savior when we see Him, because we have seen Him in your faces and felt His love in your hugs." Papa always told us, "Leave it better than you found it." Well, Papa, you sure did!  Online memories and tributes can be posted for the family at: www.HolbrookMortuary.com