Obituary of Gary Lynn Larson

Gary Lynn Larson, 62 of Fort Atkinson, passed away unexpectedly from an apparent blood clot in his lung on Thursday, December 25, 2014 at UW Hospital in Madison. Gary was born on May 10, 1952 in Fort Atkinson, to Wally and Ione (Hein) Larson. After graduating from Fort Atkinson High School in 1970, Gary immediately began his service in the United States Navy. Gary served 4 years of active duty and 2 years as inactive reserve. On October 20, 1973, Gary married the love of his life; Joanne Belleau-Gutermuth. Gary and Joanne lived next door to each other as children and reconnected while Gary was visiting family during a Military Leave. Upon return from active duty, Gary and Joanne made their home in the Fort Atkinson area. Even after 41 years of marriage Jo and Gary could often be overheard greeting each other with the phrase �Love you more�. In Gary�s early career he spent time working for Fort Heating of Fort Atkinson, Fireside Heating of Whitewater, North Shore Inn of Fort Atkinson and Hans Brother�s Concrete of Jefferson. In 1986, Gary accepted a position at the Jefferson County Highway Department where he worked until his retirement in 2013. He also joined his wife at Wayne Hayes Real Estate LLC in 2001. Gary had a great passion for haggling and was always looking for a deal. He was best known for having a variety of items for sale year round. If there was something someone was looking for, it was a safe bet that Gary Larson had it. Those who knew Gary well knew that he was an avid collector of many things. He specifically loved antiques, collectables and very unique items. He also enjoyed camping with his family, spending time with his 5 grandchildren and talking and laughing with anyone that crossed his path. Additionally, Gary was a long time gearhead and loved his 1957 Chevy and his Harley Davidson motorcycle. Gary is survived by his wife, Joanne Larson of Fort Atkinson, his children Anna (Kevin) Calloway of Fort Atkinson, Adam (Shanna) Larson of Fort Atkinson, 5 grandchildren; Alexandrea, Madelyn, and Jack Calloway, Justin and Cassidy Larson, his parents Ione and Wally Larson of Fort Atkinson, his sister Mary Ann (Larry) Peter, of Lake Mills, 2 nephews; Bob (Christine) Peter and Scott (Jayne) Peter both of Lake Mills. Gary has a large extended family, including many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews and many beloved friends. �Gary was preceded in death by his brother, Larry L. Larson. The Larson family has been long time members of Trinity Lutheran Church in Fort Atkinson. A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, January 2, from 4pm to 7pm at Nitardy Funeral Home in Fort Atkinson. Additionally, a memorial visitation will be held on Saturday January 3, from 10am-11am at Trinity Lutheran Church and a memorial service will commence at 11am at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fort Atkinson. A luncheon at the church will follow the service. The Larson Family would like to thank Ryan Brothers Ambulance Service, Fort Health Care, and TLC Center at UW Hospital in Madison. And, a very special thank you to Dr. Donald Williams. The Nitardy Funeral Home, Fort Atkinson, WI is assisting the family.