Richard K. Larsen

Richard K. Larsen (May, 4, 1961 – September 27, 2015) On Sunday, September 27, 2015, Richard passed away after a long illness. Richard was 54 years old. Richard was regularly visited and comforted by family members (especially his sister Debbie) at Casa Vive Group Home in Margate, Florida at the time of his passing. Born in Brooklyn, NY on Thursday, May 4, 1961. He was the second child of Margaret and Robert J. Larsen. Though Richard was born with Down’s Syndrome his life had tremendous value and meaning to those who were fortunate enough to have been a part of it. Like a lighthouse beacon on a calm night or during a rough storm, his life served as a constant glowing reminder of the potential good which lies in all of us for unconditional love, compassion, forgiveness, generosity and hope. Those that loved him learned that the real measure of success in their life was not the amount of material possessions that could be accumulated, but rather how their lives could positively touch others. Richard’s mother, father, brothers and sister were always committed to seeing that he had the best possible care throughout his life. Because of their dedication, he had a longer, happier, and better quality of life than many had ever expected. Richard will always be remembered for the simple way he chose to live his life. Always re-organizing his closets and drawers, vacuuming the floor, setting the table, going to work, kissing his many girl friends on the bus, watching Batman and the NY Yankees on TV, listening to music he loved, and above all, showering his family and friends with his unconditional love and compassion. Richard taught many that no life is a failure when it causes so many to care for others. At that Richard succeeded magnificently. His life was, and will continue to be, the shining example of how his loved ones have chosen to live their lives. A passage in the New Testament says, "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unaware." For those who knew and loved Richard, he was their angel. Richard was preceded in death by his father, Robert J. Larsen. Richard is survived by his mother Margaret Larsen, his brother Robert J. Larsen, Jr. (wife LuAnn Larsen), sister Debbie Larsen-Luther (husband Mark Luther), brother John G. Larsen (wife Cheryl), nieces Kristyn Larsen, Aimee Larsen, Angela Larsen and Danielle Larsen, and nephew Robert J. Larsen, III. In lieu of flowers or donations, the family requests that you take a moment to tell each of your loved ones how much they mean to you, and to always remember to show kindness to others (even strangers). For immediate and extended family members a graveside service will be held 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, October 1, 2015 at Saint Charles Catholic Cemetery in New York.

Richard K. Larsen

May 4, 1961 - September 27, 2015