DON A. LARKIN Final Flight on September 14, 2015 |
Don A. Larkin, USAF (Retired) May 23, 1949 - September 14, 2015
Don A. Larkin, age 66, passed away at his home in Coeur d'Alene on September 14, 2015. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Caroline (Rovira) and Archie Larkin; brothers, Jim Larkin and Ernie Cory. Don is survived by his loving wife Nancy of 44 years. They were married in Wichita Falls, Texas on July 27, 1971. Don is lovingly remembered by his son, Tony of Ephrata, WA; his older brother, Frank Cory; nephew, Keith Cory; and niece, Cheryl Ramirez of Livermore, CA.
"As Don's older brother I had the opportunity to watch Don grow from a rebellious young kid to a real man with strong support and love for family and country. He had a deep love and respect for his wife, Nancy. His love of life and its experiences was contagious which he shared with others. I couldn't have had a better brother. Love, Frank”
"Uncle, I LOVE you so very much, I will miss you. I will forever remember your laugh, sense of humor and teasing nature. You were very special to me and there for me through some difficult times in my life. I am grateful for the time we shared together and it feels way to short. Hugs and many kisses!! Love, Cheryl"
Don was born in Yreka, California on May 23, 1949. He graduated from San Mateo High School in 1967 and joined the United State Air Force where he worked as a helicopter mechanic and in medical administration. After 20 years of active duty service he worked as a Personnel Reliability Program Officer at Fairchild Air Force Base Hospital for 21 years. Don enjoyed camping, fishing, motorcycling, four wheeling, facebook jail and quiet nights at home with his wife, Nancy.
At Don's request there will not be any funeral services. Yates funeral Home, Coeur d'Alene is in care of final arrangements.
~~Guest Book~~ September 21, 2015 I was stationed with Don at Elmendorf AFB, Alaska. We worked several shifts together mostly in the Winter months in the snow and cold. It was a supreme pleasure knowing Don and working with him and he will be sorely missed by the helicopter community. ~ Bevon R. Dowell September 21, 2015 I did not know Don, but I do know that Don was a member of our USAF RotorHeads website group and a brother in our USAF helicopter family. My thanks to Don for his service to our country. God rest your soul. ~ Jim Burns September 21, 2015 Don was instrumental in a couple of really hard transitions in my Air Force career. He was always willing to help out when needed and was always ready with an answer or advice. He will certainly be missed. ~ Kerilyn Seager September 20, 2015 I didn't know Don personally but he is a member of the rescue family and a brother in arms. Go easy brother and rest well, we'll catch you on the other side. ~ Mike Hatcher September 20, 2015 I knew Don while he was with the MedGrp; great story teller, patient beyond all measure, always greeted others with smile. Loved to hear his stories about Bob Ross and their hijinks. Good times, Don. My prayers of strength and compassion for Don's family as they go through this sorrowful period. ~ Anna Martin September 19, 2015 My deep condolences for the Larkin family. I have been a friend of Don\'s and his wife Nancy for many years. He was helpful and fun to be with. He will be missed dearly. ~ Annette Rosholt September 18, 2015 I was stationed with Don at Elmendorf AFB, AK in the mid-80s. He was the Phase Dock Chief for the HH-3E Jolly Green Giant helicopters. I didn't have a lot of interaction with Don but when I did, I received respect and also teaching. I enjoyed working with. for him. I also have learned more about Don from Face Book, through several helicopter pages. I like that he was fiercely patriotic and not afraid to speak his mind! Don was a Vietnam veteran and, in my mind, earned the title of "Hero"! Fair winds and clear skies, Don. You will be missed, my friend. ~ Bob Pederson |